v V 















ajor ED. M. Main, 
Third U. S. C. C. 



THE STORY 



Marches, Battles and Incidents 



THIRD UNITED STATES 

COLORED CAVALRY 

' A Fighting Regiment in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-5. == 



With official orders and reports relating thereto, 
compiled from the Rebellion Records. 



ED. M. MAIN, Late Major, 

NEW ORLEANS, - - - - LOUISIANA. 



The Globe Printing Company, Louisville, Ky, 
1908 






• CONGRESS 
Two Copies Received 

OCT 31 1908 

CopyrijfM tl try 

aASS q^ ' XXc, No. 



intered according to Act of Congress in the year 1908, by 

ED. M. MAIN, 

In the office of the librarian at Washington, D. C. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



Page 
Organization 3 

PREFACE The Story of the Black Regiment is the History of the Third 

U. S. Colored Cavalry 21 

The Black Regiment 25 

Major E. M. Main 26 

Chapter I. The Causes Leading to the War 29 

Personal Sketches of Officers 46 

Chapter II. The Organization of the Regiment 58 

Chapter III, The Black Troopers in Battle 6| 

Chapter IV. The Regiment goes into Winter Quarters 72 

Major Cook Ordered to Roebuck Lake and Honey 

Island 75 

Lieutenant Colonel William T. Clark 75 

Captain Andrew Ernbry 80 

Chapter V. A Raid across the River in Louisiana and Arkansas. 81 

Colonel Osband's Report 89 

Lieutenant Colonel William T. Clark 91 

Captain Richard Taylor 91 

Chapter VI. The Yazoo Expedition, Jan. 31 to Mar. 10, 1864 92 

Colonel Coates sends Dispatches to Vicksburg 97 

Running the Blockade 100 

A Reconnaissance 106 

Chapter VII. . , The Expedition Returns to Yazoo City 108 

- - '• ' Yazoo City and its Invironments Ill 

A Running Fight on the Benton Road 112 

Captain Howard Cook 117 

Chapter VIII. The Storm Breaks 118 

Homeward Bound 125 

First Lieutenant Edwin Farley 124 

Chapter IX. Correspondence between Brigadier General 
L. S. Ross, Commanding Texas Brigade and Major 
George C. McGee, Commanding Redoubt on Ben- 
ton Road, Yazoo City, March 5, 1864 125 

Chapter X. Roster of Commissioned and Non- Commissioned 
Officers of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, show- 
ing Rank and Service in Former Regiment 148 

First Lieutenant and Adjutant, Francis E. Lovejoy . 15(i 



TABLE OF COX TENTS. 



Page 

Chapter XL The First Battalion at Goodrich's Landing 157 

A Raid that left Death and Destruction in its Wake . 158 
Lieutenant Shotzell brings down his man at 800 

yards 102 

A Raid across the River in Deer Creek Country 165 

First Lieutenant F. W. Calais 166 

Chapter XII. I'.xpedition to Benton and Black River April and 

May, 1884 167 

First Lieutenant Frederick Fernald 174 

Chapter XIII. The Expedition to Jackson and Pearl River 175 

Report of Maj. Gen. Henry W. Slocum, U. S. Army, 

Commanding District of Vicksburg 177 

First Lieutenant D. E. Potter 178 

Chapter XIV. Grand Gulf Expedition July 11 to 20, 1861 179 

The Grand Gulf Expedition 181 

Chapter XV. Expedition from Vicksburg to Natchez, Fort Adams 

and Woodville, September 21 to October 11, 1864.183 

The Fight near Woodville, Miss 1»5 

A Summary of the Twelve Days Scout 192 

Chapter XVI. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry thrown in the 

Breach 199 

Chapter XVII 205 

Report of Col. E. D. Osband Commanding Expe- 
dition 206 

• Addenda 215-216 

Chapter XVIII. The Grierson Raid, Dec. 21, 1861 to Jan. 13, 1865 .217 

The Start 258 

The Fight at Egypt Station 223 

A Terrible Slaughter 227 

Suffering Among the Prisoners 228 

The Fight at Franklin 229 

Headed for Vicksburg 234 

Chapter XIX. A Report of the Grierson Raid from the Rebellion 

Records 235 

A Report of Capt. Anthony T. Search, Fourth Illinois 

Cavalry 240 

Chapter XX. Expedition in Southeastern Arkansas and North- 

eastern Louisiana Jan. 26 to February 10, 1865. . . .243 

Second Lieutenant David P. Shirfy 247 

Chapter XXI. Report of Col. E. D. Osband, Commanding Cavalry 

Expedition in Southeast Arkansas and Northeast 

Louisiana, January 26 to February 10, 1805 249 

Chapter XXII. Expedition Down the River from Memphis, Tenn. 

to Fort Adams, Miss., April, May and June, 1865. 255 

The Expedition starts Down the River 257 

A Naval Officer's Experience on Horseback 261 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. iii 

Page. 
Chapter XXIII. Reminiscences of the War by First Lieutenant Frank 

W. Calais 269 

Scouting Through the Cane Brakes of Mississippi. 

Betrayed by his dog ... 272 

Ordered back to Vicksburg 278 

A Plundered Plantation 275 

In the Character of a Scout 277 

Capture of a Rebel Quartermaster — He had Money 

to burn 280 

A Drumhead Court Martial, Swift Justice and a short 

Shrift 281 

Soldier Stabbed by a Cotton Buyer 282 

Chapter XXIV. Reminiscences by Lieutenant Edwin Farley 283 

Chapter XXV. Reminiscences by First Lieutenant A. H. Carson. . .287 

A Scout to Carrollton and Blackhawk 287 

Expedition to Jackson and Pearl River July, 1864 . .291 

A Raid in the Deer£reek Country 296 

The Expedition to Port Gibson, Natchez and Wood- 

ville, September and October 299 

Chapter XXVI. The Confederate Lieutenant's Dream .302 

Chapter XXVII. Old Alf, the Wizard of the Black Regiment 304 

Old Alf as a Scout— A Dash for Life 308 

Old Alf Runs Amuck 313 

A Perilous Undertaking 317 

Chapter XXVIII. Little Bob, the Waif 320 



THIRD 
UNITED STATES COLORED CAVALRY 



ORGANIZATION. 

Pursuant to the call, of date May 5, 1893, the following sur- 
viving officers of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, met in club 
room "A," Grand Pacific Hotel, Chicago; Lieut. Col. J. B. Cook, 
Majors Charles' H. Ghapm and Ed. M. Main; Captains Andrew 
Emery, C. C. Spaids, Randolph Grimes, Benjamin S. Wing and 
Howard Cook ; Lieutenants Frank W. Calais, Edwin Farley and 
Fred Fernalld, and proceeded to organize as the "Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry Organization," electing the following officers to 
serve one year : 

President, Lieut. Col. J. B. Cook; Vice President, Major 
Charles H. Chapin ; Treasurer, Lieut. Edwin Farley ; Secretary, 
Lieut. F. W. Calais ; Historian, Major Ed. M. Main. 

BOARD OF REFERENCE. 

Lieut. Col. J. B. Cook, Capt. Andrew Emery, F. W. Calais. 

The following address, by Major Ed. M. Main, was then 
ordered to be made part of the record and published in connec- 
tion with the by-laws, which were adopted for the guidance and 
control of this organization. 

ADDRESS. 

Mr. President and Comrades: 

That the colored troops acquitted themselves with credit, has 
been fully demonstrated, and that the success they achieved was 
due to the patriotism and unflinching bravery of their white 
officers, must also be admitted. 

Tt is needless to say that without efficient white officers the 
experiment with negro troops would have been a total failure. 

The officers of negro troops have not received the credit tc* 
which they are so deservedly entitled, and for which the great 
service they rendered to the country in its darkest hour of peril 



4 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

demands. Rising above the storm of prejudice then prevailing 
against the negro troops, they came to the rescue at a time when 
the Union was tottering on the brink of dissolution. 

Voluntary enlistments had ceased in the loyal States, and 
the Union army was wasting away before the invincible legions 
of Uee and Johnston. 

Scattered, as it was, over a vast territory, the Union army 
was unable to face their opponents and, at the same time, hold 
the already subjugated territory. At this period of the war, the 
fact first dawned on the Northern mind that one of the greatest 
elements of strength the South possessed consisted in her slave 
population numbering four million souls, who tilled the soil 
producing the sugar, rice, cotton and corn that fed and clothed 
the confederate armies, and who also looked after the home in- 
terests while the entire white male population flocked to the 
support of the Southern standard. 

But the usefulness of the negroes did not end here. In the 
capacity of pioneers and teamsters, in fact, performing all the 
various duties pertaining to an army, they formed a valuable 
auxiliary to the Southern cause. 

Then the negroes were 1 made the instruments for the destruc- 
tion of the Union and for perpetuating their own enslavement. 

It became apparent, therefore, that to save the Union, slavery 
must be destroyed. 

The people of the North failed to comprehend the true con- 
dition of affairs, until they saw their own farms and workshops 
deserted in consequence of the heavy drafts made for men to fill 
up the depleted ranks of the Union army. 

When the ^question of giving the negroes a chance to fight 
for their own freedom was at last determined upon by the Federal 
Government, a great howl of rage and indignation went up from 
the South, which, being echoed by their Northern allies, "Copper- 
heads," aroused a bitter prejudice against the measure, which, 
spreading through our own army, created widespread dissatisfac- 
tion. 

The idea of commanding negro troops was at first severely 
ridiculed, and the prejudice was so great that but few men 
could be found who possessed the moral courage to face the 
obliquy, which threatened to overwhelm all who accepted posi- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 5 

tions in colored regiments. There were, however, a few com- 
missioned and non-commissioned officers in some of the white 
regiments, whose patriotism and courage could stand the test. 
These men, stepping into the breach, formed the nucleus of 
what ultimately became an army of nearly 200,000 well organ- 
ized, finely drilled and highly disciplined troops. These troops, 
as fast as organized and equipped, took the field and, by their 
conduct under fire, soon won the respect of the whole army. 
The prejudice against them disappeared, at least in the army, 
and thereafter, white and colored soldiers fought side by side, 
mingling their blood in a common pool on many hard fought 
fields. 

As this branch of the service grew in favor, positions in 
colored regiments were eagerly sought after. But as the stand- 
ard of admission was high, many applicants suffered disap- 
pointment. 

The officers of colored troops were selected from the best 
men in the white regiments, being chosen for their bravery 
and soldierly qualities. These qualifications being established 
by previous faithful and meritorious service in their old regi- 
ments, a rigid examination before a board of army officers, 
expert in military tactics, was required to test their fitness to 
command. Without these qualifications, influence had no weight 
in securing these positions, and it is not too much to say that 
in no other branch of the service did the officers reach a higher 
standard of excellence, and in patriotism and bravery, the officers 
of colored troops had no peers. 

In the early days of the war, the South discussed the ques- 
tion of using the negroes as soldiers. But the proposi- 
tion did not, seemingly, meet with general favor, through fear, 
probably, of trusting arms in their hands, and for the further 
reason that their services could be utilized in other ways with 
almost equal effect. The Southerner, true to the instincts of 
his chivalric nature, would shoulder his gun and fight valiantly, 
but he scorned the menial duty of driving teams and building 
breast works. 

So all that sort of work was performed by the negroes, 
leaving all the white men free for duty in the ranks. 



6 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

It is on record, however, that in New Orleans during the 
first days of the war, negroes were enlisted in the Confederate 
service, being organized into companies and regiments, armed 
and drilled. 

In a letter to the Confederate Congress, under date of Feb- 
ruary, 1865, urging the enrollment of negro troops, General 
Lee said . 

In answer to your second question, I can only say that, in 
my opinion under proper circumstances the negroes will make 
efficient soldiers. I think we could at least do as well with them 
as the enemy, and be attaches great importance to their assistance. 

Under good officers and good instructions, I do not see why 
they should not become soldiers. They possess all the physical 
qualifications, and their habits of obedience constitutes a good 
formulation for discipline. 

They furnish a more promising material than many armies 
of which we read in history, which owed their efficiency to 
discipline alone." 

In the "Rebellion Records," Series 1, Vol. XLVI, p. 1315, 
we find the following: 

Camp Forty-ninth Georgia Regiment, 

Near Petersburg, March 15, 1865. 
Col. W. B. Taylor, 

Assistant Adjutant-General : 

Sir — The undersigned, commissioned officers of this regiment, 
having maturely considered the following plan for recruiting 
this regiment, and having freely consulted with the enlisted men, 
who almost unanimously agree to it, respectfully submit it, 
through you, to the commanding general for his consideration : 

First : That our companies be permitted to fill up their 
ranks with negroes to the maximum number under the recent 
law of Congress. 

Second : That the negroes in the counties of Georgia which 
our companies hail from be conscribed in such numbers and un- 
der such regulations as the War Department may deem proper. 

Third : That after the negroes have been so conscribed, 
an officer or enlisted man from each company be sent home 
to select from the negro conscripts such Who may have own- 
ers or may belong to families of whom representatives are in 




.Major CHAS. H. CHAPIN, 
Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 7 

the company, or who from former acquaintance with the men 
may be deemed suitable to be incorporated in these companies. 
For the purpose of carrying out more effectually and promptly 
the plan as indicated under the third head, it is respectfully 
suggested that each man in the regiment be required to furnish 
a list of relatives, friends or acquaintances in his county of 
whom it is likely that negroes may be conscribed, so as to 
facilitate the labors of the officer or man who may be detailed 
to bring the negroes to the regiment. 

When in former years for pecuniary purposes, we did not 
consider it disgraceful to labor with negroes in the field or 
at the same work bench, we certainly will not look upon it 
in any other light at this time, when an end so glorious as 
our independence is to be achieved. 

We sincerely believe that the adoption throughout our army 
of the course indicated in the above plan, or something similar 
to it, will insure a speedy availability of the negro element 
in our midst for military purposes and create, or rather cement, 
a reciprocal attachment between the men now an service and 
the negroes highly beneficial to the service and which would 
probably not be otherwise obtained. 

We have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient 
servants, J. T. Jordon, Colonel. 

J. B. Duggan, Major. 

M. Newman, Adjutant. 

L. E. Veal, First Lieutenant Company A, 

L. L. Williams, Captain Companies B and G. 

C. R. Walden, Lieutenant Company B. 

A. G. Brooks, Lieutenant Company F. 

S. J. Jordon, Lieutenant Company H. 

Wm. T. Mullally, Captain Company I. 

R. S. Anderson, Captain Company G. 



( First indorsement) 

Headquarters Thomas' Brigade 
March, 18. 1865. 
Respectfully forward, Approved. 

Edward L. Thomas. 

Brigadier-General. 



8 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

(Second indorsement) 

Headquarters Wilcox Light Division, 
March 21, 1865 
Respectfully forwarded, believing that the method proposed 
within is the best that can be adopted. 

C. M. Wilcox, 

Major-General. 



(Third indorsement) 

Headquarters Third Corps, Army Northern Virginia. 

March 22, 1865. 
Respectfully forwarded. 

The plan proposed is commended as worthy of attention and 
consideration. 

H. Heath, 

Major-General, Commanding. 



(Fourth indorsement) 

March, 27, 1865. 
Respectfully returned. 
The commanding general commends the spirit displayed 
by this regiment. The plan of organization which has been 
regarded most favorably proposed a consolidation of the reg- 
iments of ten companies, as they now exist, into six companies, 
and that the regimental organization be maintained by attaching 
to the six thus formed' four companies of colored troops. Each 
regiment would then preserve its identity. Perhaps this plan 
would be equally acceptable to ,the forty-ninth Georgia Regiment. 
By command of General Lee. 

W. H. Taylor, 

Assistant Adjutant-General 



War Department, C. S. Army, 

Adjutant and Inspector General's Office, 

Richmond, Va., March 15, 1865. 
Majors J. W. Pegram and Thomas P. Turner: 
(Through General Bwell.) 
Sirs : — You are hereby authorized to raise a company or 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 9 

companies of negro soldiers under the provision of the act 
of Congress approved March 13, 1865. 

When the requisite number shall have been recruited they 
will be mustered into the service for the war, and muster-rolls 
forwarded to this office. The companies when organized will 
be subject to the rules and regulations governing the Pro- 
visional Army of the Confederate States. 

By command of the Secretary of War ; 

John W. Riely, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 



Under the above mentioned law the organization of colored 
troops was commenced. But it was too late, the cordon was 
tightening around the doomed Confederacy. The closing scene 
at Appomattox was drawing near. We ihave .never heard 
any disparaging remarks about negroes serving in the Con- 
federate army. Had the South succeeded in putting her proposed 
200,000 negro troops in the fiell'd, their praisie would now be 
linked with that of the Confederate soldiers. 

From a Southern standpoint, it was all right for the negroes 
to fight for the Southern Confederacy, but for them to fight 
for the Union and freedom, was held as a great outrage and 
an infringement on the divine rights of the South. The fact 
is, negroes have fought in every war this country has been 
engaged in, except, perhaps, the war with Mexico. 

In the revolution, the negroes fought valiantly in the ranks 
with white soldiers, and in the war of 1812, at the battle of 
New Orleans, they fought shoulder to shoulder with the men 
from Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and Louisiana, under 
that great Democratic soldier and statesman, Andrew Jackson. 

The limit of Southern arrogance was reached when Jeff 
Davis issued his decree declaring negro troops and their white 
officers outlaws, placing them outside the pale of civilized warfare. 

This inhuman act, followed by the Fort Pillow massacre, 
shocked the civilized world, and evoked a spirit that drove 
its author forth, shorn of his brief authority, a fugitive from 
justice. 

The proverb, "Truth is mighty and will prevail", was never 



10 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

more fully exemplified than was shown in the happy termination 
of the war. 

That Divine Providence which shapes the destinies of men 
and of nations, through her chosen instruments, worked the 
slaves' redemption from bondage. 

Speaking through the loyal hearts of the North, it was the 
inspired hand of Lincoln that penned the emancipation proc- 
lamation, striking the chains from four million human beings. 

The black man's day of jubilee had come. John Brown's 
soul was marching on. The recruiting offices were thrown open 
for the enlistment of colored soldiers. 

Did they improve the opportunity thus offered to strike a 
blow in their own behalf? Yea, the 186,097 enlistments that 
followed testify that they did. 

The justice of emancipation was made manifest in the light 
of a new inspiration, crowning the Union arms with a succession 
of brilliant victories, which covered the slave oligarchy with 
confusion and irretrievable defeat. 

Thanks to the spartan band of heroes who could not be 
swayed by fear, favor or prejudice, the work of enrolling col- 
ored troops went on apace ; companies, regiments and brigades 
were quickly organized and equipped. 

With but little instruction in the way of drill, these troops 
took the field, and while the country was debating the question, 
"will the black troops fight," the problem was solved ait Fort 
Wagner, Port Hudson and Milliken's Bend, where they were 
pitted against the serried ranks of the Confederacy. 

From these battle fields the report went forth, even from 
unwilling critics that "the colored troops fought nobly." 

Being outlawed by the enemy, the knowledge that, if cau- 
tured no quarter would be given, nerved your arm to strike for 
victory. Knowing what fate awaited you if overcome in battle 
no vision of prison-pens haunted your dreams. 

Often far out in the enemies' country, surrounded by over- 
powering numbers, cut off from any possible chance of support, 
thrown upon your own resources, left to fight the battle single 
handed and unaided, knowing that you had a cruel and merciless 
foe before and around you. Yet undaunted you faced death 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 11 

and, like brave men and patriots, conscious of the justice of 
your cause, trusted the issue to the God of battles. 

When time shall have obliterated sectional prejudices, future 
historians, rewriting the story of the great struggle for national 
existence, will carefully adjust the scales of justice. 

In one side will be justice, forbearance, and a due regard for 
the rights of mankind. In the other side will be injustice, 
arrogance and oppression, intolerance and cruelty, chains and 
slavery, and misery unspeakable mingled with the groans of 
captives in chains, the agonized cry of Union soldiers sick and 
dying in foul prison-pens, at whose sufferings pitying angels 
weep, and devils dance with glee. Which side think you, will re- 
ceive the approving sentence, "Well done, thou good and faithful 
servant?" 

Nearly all the white regiments have had written and published 
a history of the part they took in the great struggle. The ser- 
vices rendered by the colored troops have also been eloquently 
set forth by different writers. 

In these latter publications, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
has received but a passing notice, while some of the colored 
regiments are given a prominence which places them in the 
front ranks of that veteran army. 

Without detracting from the well-earned' fame of any, we 
can confidently enter the lists and compete for honors with any 
regiment, white or black, that served in the Western army. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry enjoyed the proud dis- 
tinction of being ranked among the finest cavalry regiments in 
the army of the Tennessee. 

Many of its brilliant achievements are mentioned in general 
orders of the war department. The history of the regiment 
will show* a long list of brilliant victories and no defeats. Its 
record is blameless, no stain dims the glory of its conquests. 
Though aggressive, the regiment never violated the laws of 
honorable warfare. It gave and took blow for blow. In a fail 
and open field the regiment acknowledged no superior. Before 
the whirlwind of its charge no equal number of troops could 
stay its course. 

If an important point was to be held, requiring the highest 
standard of discipline and courage, the regiment was invariably 



12 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

singled out for the duty. The reputation of the regiment was 
such that its presence at a critical time inspired almost un- 
bounded confidence. 

If the regiment was sent to perform a certain duty, or to 
hold a position, on the successful defense of which depended 
important results, no one doubted their ability to fulfill the trust 
if in the power of that number of troops to do so. 

No enemy could surprise and raid a camp over which the 
regiment stood guard. No sudden onslaught of the enemy could 
break and stampede their lines; they might be driven back by 
overpowering numbers, but only after a stubborn resistance, 
retiring in good order. 

The unflinching bravery of the officers and the high standard 
of discipline maintained, precluded the possibility of 'breaking their 
organization. On the retreat, the regiment was as formidable 
as when advancing. In point of discipline and ready control 
under all circumstances, no regiment approached a higher stand- 
ard of excellence. 

Whether leading the advance, standing in the deadly breach, 
or covering the retreat of a defeated and disheartened army, 
the regiment, with unbroken front, never wavered. 

The black troops inspired by the dash and daring of their 
offieers, seemed to rise equal to any emergency. The name of 
the "Black Regiment" was potent, in the Mississippi valley. Its 
battle cry on a closely contested field, like the blast of Roderic's 
bugle horn, was worth a thousand men. 

The enlisted men were far above the average of those in 
colored regiments. Having thousands of likely young colored 
men to choose from, none but the finest specimens of physical 
manhood were accepted, care being taken to enlist none but 
young, active men, of medium weight, regard also being had to a 
fair amount of natural intelligence. Physically, therefore, the 
enlisted men of the regiment approached as near to that standard 
of ideal cavalrymen as has probably ever been realized. The 
majority of the men were mulattoes and in many of them the 
Caucasian blood predominated. They were superb horsemen, 
and yielding ready obedience to the requirements of military 
discipline, they soon become proficient in all the duties of a 
soldier. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 13 

When the story of the "Black Regiment" is written, \\\z 
reader will have to stand with them and face the "Black Flag" 
and choose between victory and death. He will be called upon to 
accompany them in many midnight forays, where hand to hand 
encounters test the courage of the bravest. 

He will be taken over the battlefields where the price of 
victory was half their number slain. 

He will stand with them in the deadly breach, where the 
fate of an army hung on the issue. He will see the flash of 
their sabres on the hills of Woodville, and see them disappear 
in the smoke and crash of battle, and hear the shout of victory 
as they emerge with the enemy's guns. 

He will go with them over the field of Franklin, where they 
met Wirt Adams' bold riders in numbers five to one. 
There the dead lay thick and some of their bravest souls took 
flight. 

He must stand with them in the little earthwork at Yazoo 
City, where the ground was slippery with the blood of their 
fallen comrades, and listen to the ultimatum of the rebel com- 
mander, who speaking through a flag of truce, conveyed this 
message; "I have ordered a charge and no quarter will be given 
you." How you answered that threat, the dead that strewed 
the ground in front of the works attested. 

Your valiant maintenance of that position was as heroic as 
the English defense of Lucknow. In that engagement you were 
outnumbered ten to one, opposed to you and completely sur- 
rounding your position, were eight rebel regiments, viz. : The 
14th, 15 th, and 17th Tennessee, the 3d, 6th, 7th, and 9th Texas 
and 8th Louisiana, with batteries on every hill-top trained upon 
your position, as shown by the official records of the rebellion. 

If the reader's nerves can stand it, let him come with us 
down into the Cypress Swamp, on the banks of Boeuf River, 
and witness the night attack, when, under the silent stars of 
early morning, took place one of the most sanguinary conflicts 
of the war. Let him behold, in that one terrible hour of death 
and carnage, a scene which no pen can describe, no tongue 
portray, no brush transfer to canvas. Let him witness the 
lightning-like transition from quiet repose to the wildest con- 
fusion of deadly strife. 



14 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Grouped around their smouldering camp fines, unwarned of 
a lurking foe, waiting for the coming dawn, the black troopers 
were startled by the flash and report of five hundred guns, 
coming like a thunderbolt from a clear sky. The death-dealing 
missiles tore through their scattered ranks, as out from the dark 
shadows of the swamp their murderous assailants sprang upon 
them. 

If the gates of hell should open before him, he would seek 
shelter within from the sulphurous storm raging without, where 
blazing shotguns, pistols and carbines light up the darkness with 
deadly flash, scorching the hair and burning the clothing. 
Obedient to the command of their officers, whose intrepid daring 
and coolness have never been surpassed, if equalled, the black 
troopers, rallying around their standard bearer, met the rebel 
onslaught, forcing them back at the pistol's muzzle. Stumbling 
over the prostrate bodies of friend and foe, guided only by the 
flash of the enemy's guns, the black troopers fought as men only 
can, who see death staring them in the face, with victory their 
only alternative. Hand to hand, breast to breast, fighting with 
the desperation of despair, friend and foe went down together, 
mingling their life blood in a common pool. 

Loud above the din and clash of arms arose the rebel yell, 
as again and again they pressed forward, determined not to 
yield the fight to their hated black adversaries. From the deeper 
depths of the swamp came back the echo of the battle, mingled 
with the wild cry of the frightened night-birds, as from their 
lofty perch they flew, screeching, from the awful scene. 

There the battle raged until, with the gray of the coming 
dawn, as though devil's work like this 1 was for darkness only, 
the carnage ceased, the rebels disappearing in the dark recesses 
of the swamp, going as precipitately and mysteriously as they 
came, leaving their dead and wounded where they fell. 

After the battle, the lifeless bodies of friend and foe lay 
scattered promiscuously over the field, rebel and colored soldiers 
lying side by side, showing that it had been man for man. 

Around the lifeless body of a brave colored sergeant lay two 
dead rebels. The fact that nearly every commissioned officer 
in the command was wounded, proves the desperate character of 
the fighting and speaks volumes for the bravery of the officers. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 15 

Passing over many equally stirring events which mark the 
brilliant career of the regiment, let us review for a moment the 
assault on Black River Bridge, which for heroic gallantry, stands 
unparalled in the history of the war. Major-General Canby in 
General Orders No. 81, dated December 9, 1864, said of this 
engagement : 

"The Major-General commanding the District of West 
Tennessee and Vicksburg, styles this affair as one of the most 
daring and heroic of the war." Two previous and wiell organized 
attempts by some of the best troops in the department, had 
failed to dislodge the enemy and destroy this bridge. That these 
assaults had been desperately maintained and that the bridge had 
been heroically defended, its blackened and bullet-torn timbers 
attested. 

It was at a time when the rebel general Hood was concen- 
trating his army for an attack on the forces of General Thomas, 
at Nashville. His means of obtaining supplies and reinforce- 
ments must be cut off, to effect which, the railroad bridge over 
the Big Black must be destroyed at any cost. From the previous 
vain attempts to dislodge the enemy from their strongly in- 
trenched position at the bridge, it was well known to the District 
Commander that the bridge could only be taken by the most de- 
termined bravery and the sacrifice of many lives. 

It was not so much a question of numbers to be brought into 
action as it was of the dash and mettle of those engaged. 

It may, therefore, be considered as a high compliment to the 
officers of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, that they were 
selected to lead the assault. This bridge was situated in an 
almost inpenetrable swamp, inaccessible, except over the narrow 
railroad bed, broken at intervals by trestle-work. 

From the nature of the ground, the use of artillery was im- 
practicable, leaving no alternative but a direct charge over the 
railroad ties. f 

The bridge was guarded by a force of rebel infantry, which 
was posted in an almost impregnable position, being protected 
by a strong stockade on the opposite side of the river, from 
which they could concentrate a deadly fire on the bridge without 
exposing themselves to danger. 

Into the fiery jaws of this volcano the regiment was sent. 



16 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

On that day, November 27, 1864, the regiment won imper- 
ishable fame. 

From the Department Commander and from the war office 
in Washington, the regiment was complimented in the highest 
terms. 

You who passed through that crucial test can never forget 
the experience. It is so indelibly impressed on our minds that, 
looking back even from this distance, we shudder at the picture 
memory retains. 

Down there in that Mississippi swamp, we seem to see the 
black troopers as they appeared on that ever memorable occasion, 
crouched for the final spring. In the hard-set faces and stern 
commands of the officers we read a determination that fore- 
shadowed victory. 

It was understood by all that, when the bugle sounded the 
charge, there must be no faltering, no matter what might betide. 

For the Third Cavalry this was the supreme moment — the 
crucial test. Great results were at stake. Much depended on 
the success or failure of the charge. Much was expected of the 
Third Cavalry. Would they sustain, under this trying ordeal, 
their high reputation for gallantry. 

Let us follow them and see. 

With every nerve strung to the utmost tension, the black 
troopers, when the bugle 'sounded the charge, sprang forward 
as one man. 

Into the flaming crucible they plunged. The swamp resounds 
with the rattle of musketry and, as they meet volley upon volley, 
their lines tremble and sway like a young forest swept by a 
cyclone. 

Do they waver? Is there confusion in their ranks? No, the 
gaps close up, their organization is intact. None falter but 
those who fall to rise no more. Surely none but the best of 
disciplined troops could face undismayed that storm of leaden 
hail. 

Facing this deadly storm of buck and ball, with ranks thinned, 
they reach the bridge and, though swept by a murderous fire, 
they scale its dizzy height. With no footing but the railroad 
ties, they press forward. 

Catching the inspiration of their officers, the black troopers 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 17 

swept on with irresistible force. Pierced with bullets, men reel 
on the dizzy height and fall with a splash into the murky waters 
below. The 1 survivors reach the opposite bank. The battle cry 
of the Third Cavalry rose above the din of the conflict. They 
close in on the enemy. Through the sally ports of the stockade 
they fight their way. A mighty shout rends the air. The 
enemy in terror flee to the shelter of the swamp. The victory 
is complete. The Third Cavalry has written its name high up 
on the roll of fame. It had passed through the crucial test, 
emerging as tempered 'steel. 

The enemy had been routed from his stronghold. The bridge 
was destroyed. Nashville was saved. Hood's army was in re- 
treat. Thomas, the "Rock of Chickamauga" has turned back 
an invading army. Another cherished scheme of the Confederacy 
had been crushed. The North 'had been saved from the rav- 
ages of an invading army. Thus the Third Q. S. Colored Cav- 
alry played a humble part in that great strategic movement on 
the checker-board of war, by which Sherman and his army 
marched through to the sea, severing the Southern Confederacy 
in twain. 

This, gentlemen, is but a faint glimpse at the record of the 
regiment ; When the wihole is spread upon the pages of history, 
it will challenge comparison. The record of the regiment rests 
on well established and undisputed facts. Many of its deeds 
are chronicled in the official records of the war department. The 
light of criticism cannot fade it. Alongside the record of the 
famous regiments, whose deeds embellish the pages of history, 
the record of the regiment will lose none of its lustre. 

This, comrades, is the common heritage of the surviving 
members of the regiment. It is yours to keep, defend and 
cherish and to transmit to your children. 

All helped to make this record and all should share alike in 
its glory. 

Though there were many deeds of individual heroism, yet 
they are infinitesimal in the light of the glorious whole. 

The proudest distinction one' can have is the enrollment of 
his name on the roster of its gallant leaders, whose intrepid 
daring inspired even the humblest private in the ranks to deeds 
of valor. 



18 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Gentlemen, we owe a solemn duty to the memory of our 
gallant comrades who fell in the strife. They were the bravest 
of the brave, the noblest and truest types of the American vol- 
unteer soldier. Midst the roar and smoke of battle they sealed 
their devotion to country with their lives. 

Their heroic deeds form a part of the record of the regiment. 
In preserving this record, we honor their memory. The names 
of Stewart, Walter, Sedgwick. Starr and Pattengill are rendered 
immortal. You will find them inscribed on the roll of honor 
with this inscription; "Killed in Action." 

Monuments of marble and granite decay and pass from the 
memory of men. But they have a monument more enduring 
than stone, their names are written in never fading letters on 
the tablets of time. 

There are others, whose memory it is also our duty as well 
as our pleasure to commemorate; we see their names on the 
roster. But they are here only in the spirit, their lips are silent. 
Osband, Haynes, Hyland, Cook, Webber, Moon, Randall, Whit- 
ing, Lovejoy, Jennings, Freeborn, Beadles and Keith. 

These are names that were once potent in council and in the 
field. 

How often have we depended on the courage and fidelity of 
these men? 

Were our positions reversed, were they assembled here in- 
stead of us, were they intrusted with the duty of keeping our 
memory green, think you they would hesitate in the work? 
Think you they would allow the memory of your heroic dee- Is 
to go out in f orgetfulness ? — No. 

"The bravest are the tender est, 
The loving are the daring." 

Then let us erect an enduring monument to their memory. 
Let us leave a record of their heroic deeds. Let us tell the 
story of their sacrifices. 

Let us honor ourselves by honoring their memory. 

How often have we stood at the open grave of a beloved 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 19 

comrade and, as the clods covered the lifeless form, renewed 
our unspoken pledges of loyalty to country and to each other? 
Time cannot have made us insensible to the emotions which 
then filled our hearts. With the passing years, have their names 
and companionship faded from memory? — No. 

"Nor shall their glory be forgot, 
While fame her record keeps." 



PREFACE 



THE STORY OF THE BLACK REGIMENT IS THE HISTORY 
OE THE THIRD U. S. COLORED CAVALRY. 



A Fighting Regiment. 

This regiment sprang into existence at a time when the war 
spirit was at its height. It was born and cradled midst scenes 
of war. Its ranks were recruited and drilled under fire of ths 
enemies' guns. 

Reared midst scenes of blood and carnage, war had no ter- 
rors for the black regiment. 

This regiment was recruited from the camp-followers of the 
Union army — the colored servants, cooks, hostlers, teamsters 
and pioneers. 

Years of association with t?he army had familiarized these men 
with and inured them to the hardships and dangers of war, 
and though they had never actually borne arms, they were 
really old campaigners, being thoroughly conversant with all 
the duties of a soldier. Rendering in their humble capacity 
as servants such aid as they could to the cause of the Union 
and their own freedom, these men patiently bided their time, 
waiting for the opportunity to strike a blow in their own behalf. 

At last the long looked for day of deliverance came. Light 
came out of darkness', through the: smoke of battle and an 
almost dismembered union, the star of deliverance arose, light- 
ing the way out of bondage. 

A new nation was born, reaffirming the principles of free 
government, "that all men are created free and equal," making it 
so in fact as well as in theory. 

The emancipation proclamation was written ; at the stroke 
of the pen four million slaves were made free. The light of 



22 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

christian civilization struck the chains from their limbs, and 
the armies of the Union enforced the decree. 

Clothed with the right of citizenship, the ex-slave took 
his place in the ranks of the Union army. How well he per- 
formed his part the readers of these pages may judge. 

It must, however, be borne in mind that these men had 
just been emancipated from the bonds of slavery, that their 
backs were yet smarting from the strokes of the lash, that 
the degrading influences of a century of slavery had left its 
impress upon them, that the sin of amalgamation had rendered 
their condition more and more unbearable. 

Justice and humanity cried aloud for a stay of the curse 
of slavery and decency and virtue prayed for its extinction until 
at last the light of a better civilization burst upon the land. 

To the slave the north star was as a beacon light of liberty, 
and when the tocsin of war sounded and the inevitable clash 
came 'they rallied around the flag of the Union. 

For their soldierly behavioi and heroic deeds, I will speak 
in terms of the highest praise. Their shortcomings, the result 
of previous conditions, I will cover with the -mantle of charity. 

Commencing with the organization of the regiment — 'Start- 
ing at the little recruiting camp in Vicksburg, in October, 1863, 
and noting step by istep the rapid rise and development of the reg- 
iment in the face of obstacles the most discouraging, we trace 
their progress from a mere squad of undisciplined recruits to 
a magnificent (regiment of war worn and battle scared veterans. 

We go with them from place to place — from camp to camp, 
and we bivouac with them on a hundred battle fields. 

We are with them on all their weary marches. We pass 
nights in the saddle with them, reconnoitering the enemy's po- 
sition, and striking blows that made the name of the black 
regiment famous in the Mississippi valley. 

We join in the great cavalry raids', penetrating far into the 
enemy's country, following the retreating columns of the rebel 
cavalrv, or falling back, sorely pressed, before overwhelming 
numbers. 

We see them fall, bleeding, in the road, trampled in the 
dust as the enemy press forward. We are faint from hunger 
and thirst when they too are famishing. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 28 

We keep viirgil with them away out in the front, where the 
enemy's camp fires gleam on the adjacent hills, and we share their 
hopes and fears for the morrow's strife. 

We lose sight of them in the 'battle's smoke, and note 
their torn and bleeding ranks as they emerge from the conflict. 

We stand with bowed head as the death list is told of! 
and their names recorded with the slain. 

Their warfare is over- The soldier's requiem is said. 

"No vision of the morrow's strife 
The warrior's dreams alarms; 

No -braying horn nor screaming hfe 

At dawn shall call to arms."' 

We dug their graves 'by the road-side, in every valley and 
on every hill from Memphis, Tennessee to Grand Gulf, Miss- 
issippi. 

Their blood has stained the soil of Tennessee', Arkansas, Miss- 
issippi and Louisiana.. 

Their battle cry has been heard on a hundred battle-fields. 

They were always foremost in the van and the last to leave 
the field. 

The blast of their bugles, the clang of their sabres and the 
gallop of their steeds have carried cheer and relief to many 
besieged garrisons and outposts. 

Under the aegis of their flag the weak and defenseless never 
failed to find protection. 

Before the fury of their charge the enemies of human rights 
quailed. 

The regiment was not always victorious, it had its full 
share of triumphs and defeats, but it never became demoralized 
under fire; when compelled to retreat it invariably did so in 
good order. 

After four years of fratricidal strife, drenching the land 
in blood, the Union was 'restored, coming forth from the 1 baptism 
of blood cleansed and purified. 

The flag of the Union was 'restored to every rebellious state. 

The opposing armies, in submission to the eternal decree 
of right and justice, laid down their arms. The armies of the 



24 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Union dissolved, each individual member returning to the pursuits 
of civil life. 

The white robed goddess of peace again resumed her sway. 

The republic was rejuvenated, she had shaken off the 
incubus that degraded her civilization. From that day the 
American republic took an honored place among the great 
nations of the earth, moving forward on a higher plane in 
fulfillment of the great destiny lying before her. 

In the heart of every American there is an abiding faith in the 
justice, stability and perpetuity of this republic, and they wear 
its shield on their breasts. 

Whenever danger threatens, whether within or without our 
borders, Americans delight to rally around the old flag, and, 
standing like a living wall, shield it with their lives. 

In 1861-2, as fast as the regiments were organized and 
equipped, how the men clamored to be led to the front, and with 
what devotion they rallied around the flag when in the wild storm 
of battle it was menaced, and how often midst the battle's smoke 
its staff has been wrested from the palsied ^fingers of the 
brave standard bearer, whose life blood stained its folds, and 
by another borne aloft through the thickest of the fight. Oh, 
what a flag it is. 

The flower arid pride of the nation rallied around it A halo 
of glory encircled it. The spirit that brought it into being 
hovered near it, and well did the sons of our patriot Sires keep the 
trust confided to them. 

"You'll carry the flag — the old torn rag — 
You'll carry the flag to the fore, 

Through the press and the strain, and the deadly rain. 
Where your fathers passed before. 

And you'll stand by the flag, when the faint hearts fly. 
And the best 'that you have you'll give, 
For the men who have learned for a cause to die 
Are the men who have learned to live." 

Ed- M. Main, 

Major 3d U. S. C. Cavalry. 



Third I '. S. Colored Cavalry, 



THE BLACK REGIMENT. 

"How the dusky legions, newly clothed with God's eternal right, 
From out an hundred years of bondage, with its dark and cheerless 

night; 
How upon the fields of cotton and upon the fields of cane, 
Through the swamps, upon the woodland, on the green and grassy 

plain, 
On the field of bitter serfdom, when the master's iron heel 
Crushed itheir lives in shapeless masses with bonds of woven steel, 
Here tlbey met their old-time masters, not as serf or bonded slave, 
But full clothed in freedom's garments, all the storms of war to 

brave, 
Here they met midst cannons thunder and contending armies crash, 
And repaid with dripping sabre every stroke of cruel lash. 

Here they rode midst smoke of battle, where the carnage greatest 

grew, 
And their war cry grew the louder, though itheir ranks were growing 

few, 
And they crushed the Southern legions as tlhe whirlwind crushes 

grain, 
For they rode on wings of vengeance — vengeance for their years 

of pain, 
And they broke his ranks asunder as the sickle cuts the corn, 
For beyond the smoke of battle, where swift lightnings cut the 

gloom, 
Broke the sun of freedom, shining brightly o'er black slavery's doom, 
For the wheels of God's just vengeance, rolling o'er the earth 

beneath, 
Ground to dust the haughty Southern — crowned the slave with 

laurel wreath." By W. B. M. 



26 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 



Major E. M. Main. 

Major Main was bora at East Newport, Penobscot County, 
State of Maine, January 1, 1837. His parents moved west 
when he was a small boy, settling in Chicago, Illinois, where 
he grew up, attending the public schools. 

Major Main sprang from puritan stock, being a lineal de- 
scendant of Governor William Bradford of Plymouth colony. 
His great -grandfather, Captain William Bradford, served in 
the Revolutionary war. His grandfather on his mother's side 
Putnam Wilson, was a captain in the war of 1812. 

His people, both on the paternal and maternal side, have 
fought in every war this country has been engaged in. He enlist- 
ed under the first call for troops, April 19, 1861, in Barker's 
Chicago Dragoons, for three months, being the first company 
to leave Chicago for the seat of war. This company served as 
General McCkllan's escort during that general's West Virginia 
campaign. 

At the battle of Rich Mountain, young Main was detailed as 
special orderly to General McClellan, and carried written and 
verbal dispatches to brigade and regimental commanders, being 
frequently exposed on the firing line. 

At the expiration of his three months' term of sendee, he re- 
enlisted in Company "A." Fourth Illinois Cavalry, but was 
almost immediately transferred to company "B," same regi- 
ment, to fill the position as First Sergeant. 

For gallantry at the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh, 
he was commissioned a First Lieutenant, March 12, 1862. 

He was several times wounded, the most serious being a 
gun-shot wound in right shoulder, and a compound fracture 
of right wrist, the latter received in a charge, his horse being 
shot and falling on him. He carries the bullet still in his shoulder, 
it being impracticable to extract it. 

As a member of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, he shared in 
all the battles and campaigns of that regiment up to October 
'863, when he resigned to accept a position as Major in the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 27 

His career in this regiment is closely interwoven with the 
history of the organization. The command of the regiment 
frequently devolved upon him, notably on the great Grierson 
raid, December 1864, and January 1865, particularized by the bat- 
tles of Egypt Station and Franklin, Miss., and the raid in north- 
east Louisiana and southeast Arkansas, February and March, 
1865. 

This sketch would seem incomplete without mention of the 
Major 's steamboat episode. Standing, revolvers in hand, at 
the entrance to the cabin, screaming women and frightened 
passengers behind him, be disputed the passage of a bajnd 
of ruffianly guerillas, putting them to flight, and saving the boat 
and passengers from being plundered. Himself simply a pass- 
enger on the boat, which had stopped at a remote landing place 
to take on a supply of fuel-wood, on the Tennessee side of the 
Mississippi river, in March, 1864. 

The Major was badly wounded in this encounter, in con- 
sequence of which, lie was carried from the steamer on a stretch- 
er, on reaching Memphis, and taken to the officers' hospital, 
where he passed 'several uncomfortable months. 



CHAPTER I. 

THE CAUSES LEADING TO THE WAR. 

The war of the rebellion had raged with increasing fury for 
two years, gathering force at every stage. Its dread alarms had 
filled the land with grief and lamentations, had cast its blighting 
shadow upon every hearthstone, left a wail of agony at every 
fireside, darkened every threshold and robbed every family circle 
of a father, husband, brother, or some dear relative. 

Oh, the king of terrors was riding on the crest of a mighty 
wave of popular passion. The forces of a mighty revolution was 
at work. 

The stability of the great xAmerican Republic was being tested. 
The Union was tottering on the brink of dissolution. 

The people had been too long off guard. The watch fires of 
liberty had been allowed to smoulder. The sovereign rulers had 
been recreant to the trust bequeathed to them by the fathers of 
the republic. Yea, they had forgotten the watch word, "Eternal 
vigilance is the price of liberty," and they were 'being punished 
for the sins of omission as well as for the sins of commission. 

The Ship of State was sailing under false colors, she flew the 
pennant of freedom at her masthead, while millions groaned in 
chains. 

She engaged in a piracy of -human rights, convoying her slave 
ships from the African coast, freighted with human chattels. 

The people sang odes of freedom to the flag while it waved 
over the slave ship, consigning untold thousands to captivity. 

Thus the mockery of free government went on under the 
shadow of the slave-pen, the auction block and the whipping post, 
the civilized world looking on in disgust at such hypocrisy. 

But there came a day when the public conscience revolted at 
the enormity of slavery and its baneful influences, threatening as 
it did, to subvert the tendencies of free government. 

The people of the free or non-slaveholding States, rising in 
their might, entered a solemn protest against the further ex- 
tension of the evil— slavery. But the slave oligarchy having 
grown rich and powerful in the tiaffic of human flesh, would 
brook no interference with their cherished institution. So they 



30 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

raised the banner of revolt, seceded from the Union, renounced 
their allegiance to the federal compact, threw down the gauge 
of battle, and declared an independent government, naming it 
the "Confederate States of America." 

The civilized nations of the world, witnessing the gradual 
decadence of slavery everywhere, looked on, amazed, at the 
attempt to establish in free America, a government dedicated to 
human slavery. But the Southern leaders, in their blind greed 
for power, coerced the Southern States out of the Union and pre- 
pared for war. 

They seized all the United States forts and arsenals located 
within the boundaries of the Southern States, laid siege to and 
reduced Fort Sumpter. 

The people of the non-slaveholding States rallied to the call 
of President Lincoln for troops to put down the rebellion and 
save the Union. 

Armies were hastily organized and placed in the field. The 
first great battle was won by the seceders. The South was con- 
verted into one vast battle-field. The tramp of armed battalions 
resounded everywhere. 

Mighty armies confronted each other, advanced, fought and 
retreated as each gained or lost the vantage ground. 

It was a gladiatorial contest — a trial of giants, and the world 
looked on, amazed at the valor displayed on both sides. 

At the end of two years, the South, though severely punished 
and her resources taxed to the utmost limit, remained defiant, when 
simultaneously two great events occurred which marked a turn- 
ing point in the struggle. The defeat of the insurgent army 
under General Lee at Gettysburg, and the victory achieved bv 
the Union army under General Grant at Vicksburg, gave hope to 
the supporters of the Union cause, and correspondingly dampened 
the spirits of the adherents of secession. 

Yet these reverses seemed to spur the Southern leaders on to 
more desperate measures. Failing to carry the war into the North 
by way of Pennsylvania, they sought a route through Tennessee, 
looking with longing eyes toward the fertile fields of Indiana and 
Illinois, where they hoped to feed and clothe their hungry and 
tattered soldiers from the rich storehouses of these States. 

But General Thomas, "the Rock of Chickamauga," barred the 



Third U. S. Colored Car airy. 31 

way at Nashville. During the lull in military operations that fol- 
lowed the defeat of the rebel armies at Gettysburg and Vicks- 
burg, the Southern leaders bent all their energies to the work 
of reorganizing their forces and preparing for an aggressive cam- 
paign. Conscript officers, backed by armed force, drag-netted the 
Southern States for recruits to fill up their depleted ranks. 

The Confederate States Congress took action looking to the 
enrollment of the slaves as soldiers, it being proposed to put 
200,000 negro troops in the field. These new levies were to be 
used for home defense, leaving the entire rebel army (white) to 
take the field, invade the North and strike a staggering blow to 
the Union. A great army was placed under the command of the 
South's most daring general. Hood, who was expected to break 
through the defenses of General Thomas, at Nashville, and in- 
vade the North, while the Confederate armies under Lee and 
Johnston were to hold Grant and Sherman at bay, but they reck- 
oned without the cost. 

At this stage of the war the emancipation proclamation hav- 
ing gone into effect, the recruiting offices were thrown open for 
the enlistment of colored soldiers, and the emancipated slaves 
rallied around the flag of the Union. At last the long looked for 
opportunity had come to strike a blow in their own behalf. Com- 
panies, regiments and brigades, like magic, sprang into existence. 
These troops, led by brave and experienced white officers, took 
the field, often forming the van-guard of the army. The tran- 
sition from slave to citizen and citizen to soldier was most sud- 
den and without preparation, and the country looked on, doubt- 
ing the wisdom of such action, and standing ready to render a 
verdict of condemnation at the first symptoms of failure, while the 
declared opponents of the measure raised a great hue and cry 
against it, which engendered a bitter prejudice against the col- 
ored troops. But the men who had drawn their swords in de- 
fense of the Union were not to be turned aside by the clamor 
of a lot of sentimental weaklings. 

The life of the republic was at stake. The lines on which the 
Union could only be saved, and permanent peace assured, was 
clearly defined, and on these lines and these only, the war must be 



32 Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 

fought to a finish, or all would be iost in the general ruin that 
must follow the defeat of the Union cause. 

So the organization of colored troops was pushed with the 
utmost celerity, and while the country was debating the question 
"will the colored troops fight?" the problem was solved at Fort 
Wagner, Port Hudson, Milliken's Bend and other places from 
which the report went forth, even from unwilling critics, "that 
the colored troops fought nobly." 

In these engagements the colored troops led the attack, storm- 
ing the enemy's works at the point of the bayonet, fighting hand 
to hand and falling where they fought. 

"God moves in a mysterious way, his wonders to perform, 
He plants 'his footsteps on the sea and rides upon the storm." 

At the very beginning of our government, the question of 
slavery was a troublesome one. The slave trade was then a 
source of great profit. Negroes were captured in Africa by 
slave traders and brought to this country in large numbers and 
sold into slavery. Many of these slave traders were men from 
New England. 

Owing to climatic and industrial conditions, slave labor was 
not profitable in the New England States, and they sold their 
slaves to their Southern brothers, and then commenced the 
crusade against slavery. 

Section 9, Article 1, of the constitution of the United States, 
sheds some light on the question of what the framers of that im- 
mortal document thought of slavery. It is as follows: 

"The immigration or importation of such persons as any of 
the States, now existing, may think proper, shall not be pro- 
hibited by Congress, prior to 1808, but a tax or duty may be im- 
posed on such importations, not exceeding $10, for such person." 

The foreign slave trade was then recognized as an iniquity to 
be tolerated only for a short time, is a political necessity. 

In 1818 Congress prohibited the foreign slave trade, and in 
1820 it was made piracy, punishable by death. Domestic slavery, 
however, continued and was in the fullness of time destined to 
be the cause of the greatest war of the centuries. 

One of the greatest, if not the greatest, statesman of the South, 
said: "If I could be instrumental in eradicating from the con- 




Capt. B. S. WING, 
Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 33 

stitution and laws of my country that greatest stain and blot, 
slavery, I would feel that I was entitled to greater honor than 
that ever bestowed upon any conquering hero or potentate." 

There undoubtedly were those who honestly believed that 
slavery was a divine institution. The interstate traffic in slaves 
was viewed with abhorence by many leading Southern men. 

John Randolph, while upholding slavery, denounced the 
traffic. In 1818, free labor in the North and slave labor in the 
South were brought squarely face io face. Slave labor was fast 
rising in value. The new lands of the lower Mississippi opened a 
vast field for slave labor in the production of cotton and sugar. 
I: was believed, says one historian, that "the extension of slavery 
into the territory would save it from gradual extinction." 

In the course of time Missouri sought admission to the Union 
as a State. It was tacitly understood that slavery might be carried 
into the territory west of the Mississippi River. What was then 
known as Louisiana, belonged to the whole Union rather than 
to any one of the several States. 

The question now arose whether Congress should establish 
slavery anew in territory of the United States. The alternative 
was presented by the South to the people of the North, whether 
to submit to these demands or consent to a dissolution of the 
Union. 

In 1819, there were eleven free and eleven slave States. Mis- 
souri was pressing her claims for admission. Should she be ad- 
mitted with or without slavery was the great question claiming 
the attention of the whole country. 

James Talmadge, of New York, proposed that there should be 
no personal servitude in the States, except those already held as 
slaves, and that those should be manumitted within a certain 
time. Various plans and conditions were proposed, but Missouri 
was finally admitted as a slave State, with a proviso, however, 
known as the "Missouri compromise," providing that slavery 
should not exist in what was known as the "Louisiana Pur- 
chase," north of 36° -30 (the south line of Missouri) except in 
Missouri. 

Henry Clay declared that this settled the slave question for- 
ever. Constant agitation was sfoin.T on in the North. In 1831 



34: Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 

Garrison's "Liberator" appeared in Boston. He advocated the 
immediate and unconditional emancipation of the slaves. 

The passage of a new tariff law by Congress in 1833, came 
near precipitating a rebellion in South Carolina, but it was stamped 
out by the prompt and vigorous action of President Jackson. 

In that year the legislatures of Northern States were called 
upon to pass laws to suppress anti-slavery societies by penal en- 
actments. In many cities of the North and East, pubn. meetings 
were broken up, newspapers destroyed and houses burned. 
Northern citizens traveling in the South were arrested, impris- 
oned and flogged for flimsy reasons. 

Wm. Lloyd Garrison was dragged through the streets of 
Boston with a rope around his neck. Marius .Robinson, an anti- 
slavery lecturer, in Mahoning county, Ohio, was tarred and 
feathered in a cruel manner ; Amos Dressier, a theological student, 
while selling Bilbles in Nashville, Tenn., was flogged in the public 
square because, without his knowledge, some of his Bibles were 
wrapped in cast off anti slavery papers. Elijah P. Lovejoy, at 
Alton, Illinois, was foully murdered while defending his press. 

It was such demonstrations as these that aroused Wendell 
Phillips and caused him to give io the cause of emancipation 
thirty years of his great and moving eloquence. 

Our war with Mexico grew out of the slavery question. Texas 
had been fighting for her independence, she desired the inter- 
vention of the United States in her behalf. Failing in this for a 
time, she sought the aid of England, stipulating in consideration 
of such aid, that she would remain independent and never become 
annexed to any other country. 

England signified her willingness to aid Texas in securing 
her independence, but intimated a desire if such aid were given, 
that the proposed new republic (Texas) should abolish slavery 
within her territory. 

The knowledge of this fact made the Southern statesmen even 
more anxious to secure the annexation of Texas to the United 
States as a field for the further extension of slavery. 

The Mexican Government learning of the movement to annex 
Texas to the United States, notified our Government that such an- 
nexation would be considered as cause for war. The annexation 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 35 

finally came, however, followed by war in which our soldiers won 
renown at Buena Vista and Monterey, and made General Taylor 
President of the United States. The poet Hoffman says : 

"We were not many we who stood 
Before the iron steel that day; 
Yet many a gallant spirit would 
Give half his years, if he could 
Have been with us at Monterey. 

Our banners on those turrets wave 
And there our evening bugles play, 
Where orange boughs above their graves, 
Keep green the memory of the brave 
Who fought and feh at Monterey." 

The annexation of Texas was a great triumph for Southern 
statesmen and the cause of slavery. 

In 1847, the right of Congress ;o legislate on the question )f 
slavery came up in connection with a bill for the establishment of 
a territorial government for Oregon. John C. Calhoun introduced 
his new slavery resolution declaring that the territories were 
common property and denying the right of Congress to prohibit 
slavery in the territories ; and then began the agitation and debate 
which resulted in the repeal of the Missouri compromise. 

Calhoun declared that the exclusion of slavery from any ter- 
ritory was a subversion of the Unioi, and proclaimed the separa- 
tion of the Northern and Southern States as complete. 

Again in 1850, when California sought admission to the Union 
as a State, the same bitter fight between the North and the South 
arose. 

The "fugitive slave law" was passed about this time by Con- 
gress. Fugitives were to be surrendered on demand without the 
benefit of a trial by jury. 

Any person assisting or harboring a slave was subject to a 
heavy fine and imprisonment for six months. 

Jeff. Davis resigned his seat in the United States Senate to 
run for Governor of Mississippi, on a States Rights platform. He 
was defeated by his Unionist opponent, Foote. The sentiment 
was not unanimous either North yc South. 



3t5 Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 

Garrison was mobbed for preaching against slavery in Boston 
and Davis was defeated by Unionists in his own State. 

Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" appeared about 
this time and did much to intensify the feeling between the two 
sections. A million copies of this book were sold in this country 
and Europe. 

New men were now coming upon the stage of action. John 
C. Calhoun, the great apostle of States Rights and advocate of 
slavery, died in March 1850, and Daniel Webster and Henry Clay 
died in 1852. 

In 1853, Stephen A. Douglass, of Illinois, reported his cele- 
brated bill to organize the territories of Kansas and Nebraska, 
which formed the issues upon which the Democratic and Repub- 
lican parties became arrayed against each other. 

The passage of this bill caused intense excitement in the non- 
slaveholding States, and Mr. Douglass, as its author, was bitterly 
denounced. 

He said that he traveled from Washington to Chicago by the 
light of his own burning effigies. 

The controversy turned upon the following provision repeal- 
ing the Missouri compromise : "which, being inconsistent with the 
principle of non-intervention by Congress with slavery in the 
states and territories, as recognized by the legislation of 1850 
(commonly called the compromise measure) is hereby declared in- 
operative and void ; it being the true intent and meaning of this 
act not to legislate slavery into any territory or State, nor to 
exclude it therefrom, but to leave the people thereof perfectly free 
to form and regulate their domestic institutions in their own way, 
subject only to the constitution of the United States." 

In the congressional session of 1857-8, Senator Douglass de- 
nounced and opposed the Lecompton constitution on the ground 
that it was not the act of the people of Kansas, and did not em- 
body their will. 

At the East, the line between Pennsylvania and Maryland, 
known as "Mason and Dixon's Line," and at the west, the line 
known as 36° -30 was considered the dividing line between free- 
dom and slavery. To cross this line and remove all obstacles 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 37 

against the extension of slavery was the object of Southern 
statesmen. 

Douglass declared that the compromise of 1850, left the ques- 
tion of slavery to the people within the territory. His bill passed 
both Houses of Congress and was signed by President Pierce. It 
provided for the organization of two territories, Kansas and Ne- 
braka, the slave question to be settled by the people of the terri- 
tories. The repeal of the Missouri compromise resulted in the 
disruption of old party ties and many joined the "New American 
Party," sometimes called the "Know Nothing Party," which was 
organized in 1855, to check the influence of the Pope, purify the 
ballot and maintain the Bible in the public schools. 

That year, 1855, the American party nominated Fillmore for 
President and adopted Southern resolutions, which the Northern 
delegates repudiated. 

On the same day of the American party convention, a conven- 
tion met in Pittsburg to effect a National organization of the Re- 
publican party, and called a National convention for June 17th. 
At this convention John C. Freemont was nominated for Pres- 
ident and William L. Dayton for Vice President. 

James Buchanan was nominated by the Democratic party, and 
elected. 

Buchanan stood for the Southern States, Freemont for the 
non-extension of slavery, and Fillmore for the Union. 

The repeal of the Missouri comoromise and the opening up of 
Kansas to settlement resulted in a great rush of homeseekers to 
the new territory. 

The town of Lawrence was organized and 8,000 people flocked 
in from the East, North and West. Meetings were held in 
Missouri in the slave interest, which pledged the State to send 
men to Kansas and remove all free State settlers. 

At an election held in 1855, to elect members of the Terri- 
torial Legislature, armed bodies of men from Missouri took pos- 
session of the polls and the pro-slavery candidates were, on the 
face of the returns, elected. Of 6,218 votes polled only 1,310 were 
legally cast, and the Governor set aside the election, and a new 
one was held, resulting in the success of the Free State candidates. 
The pro-slavery Legislature, however, met at Pawnee and ex- 
pelled nine Free State members. The Free State Legislature met 



38 Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 

at Lawrence and repudiated the pro-slavery Legislature, and 
called a State convention to meet at Topeka to form a State 
constitution. The pro-slavery party elected one Whitfield as a 
territorial delegate to Congress by more votes than there were 
names on the census list. 

Rival territorial governments contended against each other, 
and discord, violence and crime prevailed. "Bleeding Kansas" 
became a National issue. 

A committee of the lower House of Congress was sent to Kan- 
sas to investigate, and reported that every election had been car- 
ried by Missourians, and that the citizens of the territory had 
been prevented from exercising their rights, and that Whitfield 
had been elected to Congress by fraud. 

About this time Horace Greely, editor of the New York Tri- 
bune, and one of the leaders against slavery, was brutally as- 
saulted in New York. 

In 1856 a free State Legislature and Governor was elected 
under the new Free State Constitution. President Pierce, how- 
ever, recognized the pro-slavery Legislature and issued a proc- 
lamation commanding all armed invaders to disperse. 

The Free State Legislature met at Topeka and inaugurated 
Robinson, Governor. In the spring of 1856, a thousand young 
men from South Carolina and Georgia, led by Colonel Buford, of 
Alabama, went to Kansas in military array and surrounded the 
town of Lawrence, capturing it and destroying the hotels, print- 
ing offices and the Governor's residence. The acting Governor 
proclaimed the territory in a state of rebellion. Large pro- 
slavery forces were gathered at Lecompton and Santa Fe. Seven 
men were killed at Osawatama, one of them a son of John Brown. 
The Free State Legislature was dispersed by Federal troops. 
The town of Osawatoma was destroyed by Missourians. 
The Federal administration was in sympathy with the pro- 
slavery party, but Kansas, according to Horace Greely 's ex- 
pressive phrase, was steadily hardening into the bone and sinew 
of a Free State. 

The actual settlers were largely Free Staters and were doing 
nearly all the clearing, plowing and planting. 

In 1857, James Buchanan, in his first message to Congress, re- 
peated the assurance that the discussion of slavery had come to 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 39 

an end. He declared in favor of the admission of Kansas under 
such constitution as its citizens should adopt. He also referred 
to the forthcoming decision of the United States' supreme court, 
with which he had been made acquainted in advance, in the Dred 
Scott case. 

An action had been begun in Missouri by Scott, a negro, for 
the freedom of himself and children. He claimed that he had 
been removed in 1834 by his master to Illinois, a Free State, and 
afterward taken into 1 territory north of the Missouri compromise 
line. Sanford, his master, replied that Scott was not a citizen 
of Missouri and could not bring action, and that he (Scott) and 
his children were Sanford's slaves. The lower court differed, and 
upon an appeal to the supreme court, Chief Justice Taney in 
rendering the opinion of the court said : "The question is whether 
that class of persons (slaves) compose a portion of the people, 
and are constituent members of this sovereignty. We think they 
are not included under the word citizen in the constitution, and 
can therefore claim none of the rights and privileges of that 
instrument." 

They were at that time considered as a subordinate and in- 
ferior class, who had been subjugated by the dominant race, and 
had no rights or privileges but such as those who held power 
and the government might choose to grant them. That the act 
of Congress which prohibited a citizen from holding property of 
this kind north of the line mentioned is not warranted by the 
constitution and is therefore void." This decision made slavery 
the organic law of the land. No restriction of it could consti- 
tutionally be made by Congress in any of the territories. 

Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, became a candidate for the 
United States Senate, against Stephen A. Douglass, in 1858, on 
a platform against the further extension of slavery, and in his 
opening speech at Springfield, Illinois, declared, "that this gov- 
ernment cannot permanently endure half slave and half free." 

Governor Seward, of New York, four months later, voiced 
the same sentiment when he said: "These antagonistic systems 
are continually coming into close contact. It is an irrepressible 
conflict between opposing and enduring forces, and it means that 
the United States must and will, sooner or later, become either 
an entire slave holding or entirely a free nation." 



40 Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 

In 1859, Kansas adopted an anti-slavery constitution by a 
large majority, and in 1861, was admitted into the Union as a 
Free State. 

In October 1859, John Brown, of Osawatoma fame, made his 
celebrated but abortive attempt at Harper's Ferry, Virginia, to 
free the slaves, by inciting an insurrection. Not a single negro, 
however, rose at his summons. 

Colonel Robert E. Lee was sent by the Washington authori- 
ties to suppress the insurrection, and Brown and his men were 
captured and turned over to the Virginia State authorities and 
tried for attempting to incite an insurrection of the slaves, and 
Brown together with six of his men were convicted and hung. 

The manner of Brown's death served to greatly intensify the 
feeling between the North and South, and caused him to be con- 
sidered as a martyr by many. 

The failure of the South to make Kansas a slave state inten- 
sified the feeling in that section. It was apparent that the South 
could not maintain her equality representation with the North 
unless the existing condition of things could be changed. Reso- 
lutions having this end in view were proposed and passed in the 
Senate, but the House refused to concur. 

At the National Democratic convention to nominate a candi- 
date for President, held at Charleston, South Carolina, April 23, 
1860, an anti-slavery plank was adopted by a small majority, and 
the Alabama delegation bolted the convention, followed by most 
of the Southern States. 

The convention adjourned to meet at Baltimore, where, on 
July 18th, Douglass was nominated for President. 

The seceders met at Richmond and thence adjourned to Bal- 
timore, where they nominated John C. Breckinridge for President. 
On May 19th, a third faction, calling itself the "Consti- 
tutional Union Party," nominated John Bell, of Tennessee, for 
President, and Edward Everett, of Massachusetts, as Vice Pres- 
ident. The Republican convention, held in Chicago, nominated 
Abraham Lincoln for President and Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine, 
as Vice President. 

Mr. Hamlin was against the extension of slavery rather than 
its abolition. In a speech in the United States Senate, June 12, 
1856, he thus referred to the Democratic convention then recently 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 41 

held in Cincinnati. "The convention has actually incorporated 
into the platform of the Democratic party that doctrine which, 
only a few years ago, met with nothing but ridicule and con- 
tempt here and elsewhere, namely, that the flag of the Federal 
Union, under the constitution of the United States, carries slavery 
wherever it floats. If this baleful principle be true, then that 
national ode, which inspires us alwavs as on a battle field, should 
be re-written by Drake, and should read : 

"Forever float that standard sheet, 
Where breathes the foe but falls before us, 
With slavery's soil beneath our feet, 
And slavery's banner streaming o'er us." 

The campaign that ensued was a memorable one. Douglass 
canvassed the entire country, his finished and impetuous oratory 
stirring the people profoundly. 

Jeff. Davis and other Democratic speakers canvassed the 
North. Mr. Lincoln made numerous speeches, maintaining the 
right of each State to control its domestic affairs according to 
their own judgment, and condemning the attempt to enforce the 
extreme pretentions of a purely local interest (meaning the slave 
interest) through the intervention of Congress and the courts, by 
the democratic administration. He denied the new doctrine that 
the constitution of its own force carried slavery into the territo- 
ries ; and denied the authority of Congress or of any Territorial 
Legislature to give leave of existence to slavery in any territory 
of the United States." 

In the South, the question was also discussed as to what course 
should be pursued in case Lincoln was elected. South Carolina 
had been ready to secede from the Union for ten years, and in 
1860, the Alabama Legislature was instructed by Governor Moore 
to call a convention in case, as he put it, a "Black Republican" 
was elected President in November. 

Great excitement prevailed in the South upon the announce- 
ment of Lincoln's election. South Carolina took immediate steps 
to call a constitutional convention and on December 26, 1860, 
passed an ordinance of secession, and at the same time invited 



42 



Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 



other States to meet its representatives in convention at Mont- 
gomery, Alabama. 

Throughout the South there was some difference of opinion. 
One faction favoring immediate secession without waiting for the 
action of any other State ; another faction advocated co-operation, 
and a third faction was opposed to secession altogether. 

The South was terribly in earnest, while there was a strong 
feeling of compromise in the North. Mr. Lincoln, while con- 
ceding nothing in reference to the policy of secession, stated in a 
letter to Alexander H. Stephens that he had no intention to in- 
terfere with slavery where it already existed. 

President Buchanan, in his last message to Congress, depre- 
ciated the alarming condition of the country. He denied the right 
of any State to secede, but claimed that he could find no authority 
in the constitution to ''coerce into submission a State which is at- 
tempting to withdraw from the Union." 

Committees of both the House and Senate were appointed to 
confer with representatives of the Southern States, and if possible 
agree upon some plan of compromise. The committee of the 
House declared that, "any reasonable, proper and constitutional 
guarantee of their political rights should be promptly given." 

The committee, 'however, were obliged to report back that they 
were unable to come to any agreement upon any general plan of 
compromise. 

While President Buchanan hesitated, the South made prep- 
arations for war. Governor Pickens, of South Carolina, made 
formal request of President Buchanan that Fort Sumter be turned 
over to the State, which request was refused. 

On December 31, 1860, the flag of the United States was 
hauled down from the Federal Arsenal at Charleston and the 
flag of South Carolina hoisted in its place. Forts Pickens and 
Moultrie had already been seized. 

It was at this time that Oliver Wendell Holmes wrote Bro- 
ther. Jonathan's Lament." Addressed to South Carolina. 

"She has gone — she has left uj in passion and pride. 
Our stormy browed sister so long at our side, 
She has torn her own star from our firmament's glow 
And turned on her brother the face of a foe.'' 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 48 

The secession of South Carolina was soon followed by other 
Southern States, and at a convention held in Montgomery, Ala., 
a constitution was prepared and submitted to the people of the 
seceding states and adopted. 

In the meantime the State of Louisiana had seized Forts Jack- 
son and St. Phillips below New Orleans. 

President Buchanan allowed the Federal arsenal public build- 
ings and public property in the South to fall into the hands of 
the seceders. 

On the 4th of March. 1861, a new man took the helm of 
the ship of state, against which was beating the waves of civil war. 

In his inaugural address, President Lincoln said, "I declare 
that I have no intention, directly or indirectly, to interfere with 
slavery where it now exists. The Union of these States is per- 
petual. The power conveyed to me will be used to hold, oc- 
cupy and possess the property and places belonging to the Gov- 
ernment, and to collect the duties and imports." 

In closing he said : 

"In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not 
in mine, rests the momentous issue of civil war. We are not 
enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion 
may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The 
mystic chords of memory stretching from every patriotic home 
and grave and friends, will yet swell the chords of the Union 
when touched as they shall be touched by the better angels of 
our natures." 

Commissioners were sent to President Lincoln from the Con- 
federate States, seeking recognition. They were told that they 
could not be received except as private citizens of the Republic. 
Governor Pickens, of South Carolina, under instructions from 
the President of the Confederacy, demanded the surrender of 
Fort Sumter. Major Anderson, the commander, refused, and 
on April 10, 1861, the bombardment of the Fort commenced. The 
flag was shot down and Major Anderson was compelled to 
surrender. 

The die was cast — the war was on. 



44 Third U. S. Colored Calvary. 



Then it was that, 

"The deathless spirit of Democracy 

Confronting all emergencies, arose 

To teach the lesson of the century. 

Illumined by the bravery of those 

Who still were brothers, though unyielding foes, 

On both sides, courage holding death in scorn; 

On both sides honor that to battle goes, 

Not seeking gain, nor all to glory sworn, 

But fighting for a flag in prou 1 defiance borne." 

"Mine eyes have seen," the Northern soldier sang, 

"The glory of the coming of the Lord," 

"My Maryland," from Gulf to Richmond rang, 

And wakened Southern hearts with every word. 

Men left the plowshare and unsheathed the sword; 

Converging armies covered hill and plain; 

Long gathered gold was lavishly outpoured, 

And proud and patriotic souls were fain 

To think that chivalry had sprung to life again! 

"Lincoln arose, the masterful great man, 

Girt with rude grandeur, quailing doubt and fear, 

A more than King, yet in whose veins there ran 

The red blood of the people, warm, sincere. 

Blending of Puritan and Cavalier. 

A will whose force stern warriors came to ask, 

A heart that melted at a mother's tear, 

These brought he to his superhuman task; 

Over a tragic soul he wore a comic mask. 

"He was the South's child more than the North; 

His soul was not compact of rock and snow, 

But such as old Kentucky's soil brings forth, 

The splendid race of giants that we know, 

Firm unto friends and generous unto foe. 

Such birthrights all environments forestall. 

Resistlessly their tide of impulse flow. 

These men answering to his country's call, 

Was full of human faults an i nobler for them all." 

"He is a life and not a legend yet; 
For thousands live who shook him by the hand, 
Millions, whose sympathies with his were set, 
Whose hopes and griefs alike with his were grand, 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 45 

Who deeply mourned his passing, they command 

Our homage to the greatest man they saw — 

They his familiars, and throughout our land 

The years confirm them, every race ana land, 

Even of rancor now the voice is hushed in awe! 

"The blessings of a new enfranchised race, 

A nation's tribute to its counselor, 

The love of all his kind, unite to grace 

His fame, who stood in Freedom's darkest hour, 

Raised by the hand of God to wield a power 

Benignant, wise and gentle, yet to be 

The ruling spirit of a mighty war, 

Bathed in its blood, and after victory 

Crowned with a martyr's crown to all humanity." 

When clamoring for war, how little did the people, both North 
and South, realize the magnitude and consequences of the strug- 
gle they were entering upon. 

In a message to Congress, President Lincoln said: 

"Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray that this scourge 
of war may speedily pass away. Yet if God wills that it continue 
until all the wealth piled up by the bondman for centuries of un- 
requited toil shia'll be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn 
with the lash shall be repaid by another drawn by the sword, it 
must be said, the judgments of God are true and righteous 
altogether." 

The emancipation of the slaves was not contemplated by Pres- 
ident Lincoln at the beginning of the war. The preservation of 
the Union was his only purpose. The emancipation proclamation 
was not issued until September 1862, and then only as a war 
measure, to take effect on January 1, 1863, in case the seceding 
States did not lay down their arms and renew their allegiance 
to the Union. 

President Lincoln often declared that he would save the Union 
with slavery if he could, but without it if necessary. 

The total number of Union troops enlisted during the war, 
as reported by the War Department, was 2,772,448. By reduc- 
tion a three yeare basis the number was 1,556,678. The num- 
ber serving in the Confederate army was 1,234,000. The losses 
in the Union army, killed and wounded, were 385,245. It is 
estimated that 94,000 were killed on the Confederate side. The 
total number of colored troops enlisted was 186,097. 



4f> Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES OF OFFICERS. 

BREVET BRIGADIKK-i.KMvRAL EMBURY D. OSBAND. 

Brigadier-General Embury D. Osband was born in 
Ontario county, State of New York, June 6, 1832. When he 
was a child, his family removed io Macedon, Wayne county, 
where his youth and young manhood was spent in an atmosphere 
favorable to the best mental development. Here he received an 
excellent academic education in what was then one of the best 
educational institutions in Western New York. 

The son of a clergyman, he inherited a fondness for books, but 
relinquishing his desire for college training for want of means, 
he turned bravely, when a mere lad, to take a man's part in life's 
actions. He had acquired nothing so valuable as a belief that 
"nothing is impossible to him who wills." 

At fifteen, he was a successful teacher in the common schools, 
at eighteen, principal of a "graded school," with assistant teachers. 
At nineteen, he began business life as an agent for school books, 
in which business he continued for five years following, most of 
the time as General Western Agent for the publishing house of 
D. Appleton & Co. Few young men have developed greater 
business ability. With vigorous health, a perennial hopefulness, 
an indomnitable will that could not brook defeat, he combined an 
intuitive knowledge of human nature and a ready tact in dealing 
with men, which was invaluable. In the course of these years, 
he traveled over the Middle West, acquiring wide acquaintance 
with educational and business men, and making many lasting 
friendships. The year 1857, found him established in the book 
business in Chicago, then a city of less than one hundred thou- 
sand inhabitants. 

Later he embarked in an extensive news business, with news 
rooms in three localities in the city. Many will recall bis 
headquarters on Dearborn street under the Tremont House, 
then a noted land mark. 

In the years immediately preceding the war, much attention 
was paid to military tactics for which he had a strong liking. 

The Ellsworth Zouaves were exciting much interest by their 
striking uniforms and marvelous perfection in drill. 




E. D. OSBANI), 
Col. & Brig. Gen. Third IT. s. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 47 

A superb horseman, hie was most naturally inclined to cavalry, 
and joined Barker's Dragoons, of which organization he was 
made First Lieutenant. April, 1861 came. The country was 
awakened to find the national sky black with the tempest of war. 
The first gun at Sumter thundered in every city and hamlet in 
the land. It fell upon the ears of the people like a knell. 

There was consternation everywhere, everywhere blanched 
faces and quivering lips as men talked of the nation's calamity. 

And then came the call "To Arms," echoing from sea to sea. 
What a response was that? When, from city and prairie, from 
mountain and valley, men gathered in companies and battalions 
for the defense of the nation's liberties. 

Nowhere did the tide of patriotism rise higher than in Chicago. 
Business interests, friends, homes were forgotten in one great 
absorbing passion to strike down those whose parricidal hands 
had been raised against the nation's life. On Sunday night 
following the fall of Sumter, amid the din from a hundred 
brazen throats on river and harbor, which sounded like the 
trumpet of doom, the first company of infantry, the Zouaves, 
left for the front. 

It was Chicago's first gift to the nation. 

On Monday evening following, amid the darkness and rain, 
emblematic of the gloom and mist of tears that pervaded many 
homes, which in giving had given their all, the first company of 
cavalry. Barker, 's Dragoons, followed, and with them, Lieutenant 
Osband. 

A young man of twenty-eight, he brought to the service of 
his country a splendid physique with wonderful powers of en- 
durance, an unquenchable energy, a superb power of command, 
a genius for military operations, a brave and loyal heart. 

Nor was this all. His unformulated creed, "Nothing is 
impossible to him who wills," included in his provisions, not 
only or chiefly, but every one with whom he was associated. 
This absolute belief in the unlimited possibilities of success be- 
fore every one in whom he was interested gave him strength 
and courage as a commander, and the consciousness of his faith 
in them inspired those under him with like faith in themselves 
and with his own fine enthusiasm. It was a characteristic 
jest, and more than a jest, when, years afterwards, in command 



48 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

of the Third U. S. Colored Calvary, he wrote: "They are a 
superb body of men, I am very proud of them. I almost believe 
sometimes they could whip the whole Southern Confederacy." 

As First Lieutenant in Barker's Dragoons, enlisted for three 
months, serving as General McClellan's escort, Lieutenant Osband 
came into notice as a brilliant and promising cavalry officer. 

Returning to Chicago at the expiration of the company's 
term of enlistment, he raised a company (A) for the Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry, of which he was made Captain. Many of the 
men who served under him in Barker's Dragoons, reenlisted 
in his company. 

On joining the army at Cairo in the winter of 1861, Captain 
Osband, with his company, was detached from the regiment 
and assigned to duty as General Grant's escort, serving in 
that capacity until after the surrender of Vieksburg, when, at 
the instigation of General Grant, he was authorized to raise a 
regiment of colored cavalry, the Third U. S. of which he was 
commissioned Colonel. 

In this work his genius as an organizer was brought into 
action, and, from the roughest material, he moulded one of the 
best disciplined and most effective cavalry regiments in the en- 
tire army. 

His ability as a disciplinarian and organizer attracted the 
attention of the District commanders, and he was given the 
command of the cavalry forces of the District, which, from a 
depleted and disorganized mass, he brought to a state of great 
proficiency. 

With this cavalry force he made some of the most successful 
and sweeping raids of the war. 

He was made a brigadier-general by brevet, October 5, 1864. 
On June 24, 1865, the war being virtually over, he resigned 
his commission and returned to the pursuits of civil life, en- 
gaging in planting cotton on an extensive scale, in Mississippi, 
where on the 4th of October, 1866, he died of a malignant fever. 

The following letter from General Canby, and comments of 
the press show in what estimation General Osband was held. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 49 

HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DIVISION OF WEST MISSISSIPPI 

New Orleans, La., February 18, 1865. 
Major-General N. J. T. Dana, 

Commanding Department of Mississippi, 
Memphis, Tenn. 

General: I am instructed by the Major- General Commanding 
to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of Colonel E. D. Osband's 
report of his recent expedition, transmitted by you on the 12th 
instant, and to inform you that it has been forwarded to the 
headquarters of the Army, with the following endorsement." 



Headquarters Military Division of West Mississippi, 

New Orleans, La., February 18, 1865. 

This expedition was ordered sometime since for the pur- 
pose of destroying or breaking up the regiments of McNeil and 
Harrison, and the smaller bands in the Washita Country, who 
have been engaged in raiding the plantations on the West bank 
of the Mississippi between the mouths of the Arkansas and Red 
Rivers. The command was unable, in consequence of the 
ternible condition of the roads, to reach its ultimate destination, 
but appears to have done its work very thoroughly, as far as it 
was able to go. 

The officers and men of this command are entitled to com- 
mendation, and I recommend that Colonel Osband, for his 
services in this and in other previous operations (already re- 
ported) east of the river, be brevetted a Brigadier-General." 

E. R. S. Canby, 
Major-General Commanding. 

Very respectfully your obedient servant, 
C. T. Christensen, 

Lieut., Col. and Asst. Adjutant-General. 



50 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Headquarters Department oe Mississippi, 

Memphis, 'font., February 25, 1865. 

"Official copy respectfully furnished Col. E. D. Osband. 
F. W. Fox, 

Capt. & Asst. Adjutant-General. 



(From a Rochester, New York paper.) 

''Among recent promotions made by the President and con- 
firmed by the Senate, we; notice the name of Col. E. D. Osband 
Third U. S. Cavalry, Colored, promoted to Brigadier-General. 
This promotion will be gratifying to a 'large number of per- 
sonal friends in this city and Wayne county. Colonel Osband 
has been with General Gri arson in his raids in the southwest, 
and his promotion is a deserved testimonial to his gallant and 
and dashing qualities as a cavalry leader." 



(From the Vicksbitrg Herald.) 

"General Osband — This gallant cavalry officer was in our 
city yesterday looking aisi if there was material in him for many 
a campaign in the future. 

He is one of the most distinguished cavalry officers in the ser- 
vice and has made some famous raids through Mississippi, 
Arkansas and Louisiana during the last few months." 



(From the Cairo Times.) 

June 26, 1865. 

"We w>are made glad today by a grip from the honest and 
warworn palm of our old friend General Osband, who called 
upon us in one of his happiest moods. General Ed, entered the 
service at the first breaking out of the rebellion as First Lieu- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 51 

tenant under Chas. Barker of the Chicago Dragoons, who came 
to Cairo in company with the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Illinois 
Infantry together with Capt. Jim Smith's Chicago Battery, "A." 

Lieutenant Osband next entered the famous old Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry as Captain of Company "A," and was detailed 
as General Grant's body guard. 

In July, 1863, he was promoted to the Majorship of the reg- 
iment, and lin October he was commissioned Colonel of the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry lost at Greenwood, Yazoo 
City, Jackson, Fayette and Woodville, 325 men and 18 officers 
in killed and wounded. 

In March, 1864, the regiment was brigaded with the Third 
Brigade U. S. Cavalry. 

In October, 1864, Osband was brevetted Brigadier in com- 
mand of the brigade, and in December, was ordered to Memphis 
and relieved General Grierson. 

In May, last, the command chased General Hood's command 
into Tunica Bend, where was captured all the rebel commander's 
baggage, the airmy only escaping by the skin of its teeth. 

The General has quit the walks of war, lias resigned and 
become a peaceful citizen, is going to "squat" in the country he 
helped to conquer. 

We wish for him the fullest success. We know that if 
he is as successful as a planter as he has been as an officer 
in the service, he will raise a thousand bales the first year." 



{From a Chicago paper.) 

"Brigadier-General E. D. Osband is now on a brief visit 
to this city, where he left many friends on entering the service, 
who will rejoice at his successful and highly honorable military 
career. He joined the first cavalry organization tendered the 
Government from Chicago, and at the expiration of the first 
term of service, raised a company of his own. 

Always active, clashing and clear headed, promotion was 
sure. He has tilled the Colonelcy of one of the finest colored 
cavalry rcpiments in the.' service, from which he rose to com- 



52 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

mand the Third Brigade of the Cavalry Division of the arnw 
of the Tennessee. 

General Osband has been honorably and prominently connected 
with some of the most dashing achievements of the cavalry army 
in the southwest. He has always struck strong blows for 
the Union and straight home. 

Holding him in such regard we can but regret that be has 
tendered bis resignation." 



{From the Vicksburg Herald.) 

"Brigadier-General E. D. Osband — We have heard with 
regret of this gallant officer's resignation. It is the interest of 
the country to keep such valuable soldiers in the army, to pay 
them well and give them rank. 

General Osband's distinguished services as a cavalry leader 
in Mississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee, during a long series 
of months have not won for bim the full reputation to which' 
their brilliancy entitled bim. When <tbe wbole history of affairs 
in the valley comes to be written, be will figure in it as the most 
dashing, tireless, able and successful cavalry commander that 
we have bad in this section, and unexcelled anywhere. His 
great ability and purity in admiini strati on have always been 
unquestioned. We wish success to him as to every old soldier, 
and have spoken specially of him because be is one of the heroes 
who has made bis mark in this State, and has done himself honor 
wherever be has served. 



(From the Chicago Republican.) 

October 15, 1866. 

General E. D. Osband — Another one of those gallant and true 
men to whose valor and skill the country was indebted for its 
triumpths im the late war has passed away. We have received 
intelligence of the death of General Osband, of brain fever, 
after an illness of three weeks, at bis plantation in Mississippi, 
on the 4th instant. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 53 

In a letter from one who was near him we have the following 
account : 

"About two weeks before his illness the cholera broke out 
among the negroes on his plantation, and raged with great vio- 
lence. 

Out of the forty-four 'hands employed, thirty-eight had the 
disease, and thirteen died. The General was unremitting in 
his attention to his people, and many of them owe their lives to 
his watchfulness and kindly care. 

This labor and want of rest, together With 'the mental 
anxiety from the demoralization of 'his working force, in the 
midst of the cotton picking season, induced the disease." 

"Ned Osband" was well known in Chicago. He resided 
here ten years previous to the war. Many personal friends here 
will lament him, but few can have learned the fine qualities 
of manhood which he revealed to those who were intimately 
associated with him through arduous, responsible, and dangerous 
service. He was about thirty-four years of agfe at the time of his 
death, and had given four years of 'his prime to the country's 
service. 

As a cavalry leader he developed with experience a facility 
and power in raiding operations, and in general management 
of large bodies of cavalry, which earned him greater distinction 
than he obtained, for the reason that public attention was di- 
rected to the grander fields. In 1861, he entered the service 
as Lieutenant in Barker's Dragoons, which served under 
McGlellan in West Virginia. 

He soon after raised and became captain of Company 
A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. 

He was conspicuous in the Army of the Tennessee as Chief 
of General Grant's escort; a position which lie retained dur- 
ing all the campaigns from Belmont to the fall of Vicksburg, 
General Grant's attachment to him was 'manifested on more than 
one occasion, and especially when, having been assigned to a high- 
er command in the Eastern department, he offered Osband a de 
sirable position near him. Osband remained behind, however, 
to recruit and organize the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, of 
which be became Colonel. 

He was joined in this undertaking by a number : his com- 



54 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

rades of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, partiou'lanly those of his 
own Company, which had been on duty as escort. 

The Cavalry regiment which he organized became, under 
him, and with the excellent officers which hie had selected, one 
of the most efficient 'bodies of men in the army, and was more 
than once complimented in general orders for kls gallantry 
in action. Under the orders of Major-General Dana, his 
genius for organization and discipline was brought to bear in 
the autumn of 1864, upon an inert mass of several regiments of 
cavalry lying at Vicksburg, of which, from the sickness incident 
to badly located camps, from insufficient equipment, and from 
mismanagement, hardly three hundred men were fit for duty. 
He earned the commendation of his superior officers by speed- 
ily improving the condition and morale of these troops, and 
the result was that he was placed in active command of them as a 
brigade. 

It soon realized the solierly ideal of cavalry, in its rapid 
movements, daring onsets, and thorough subordination in all 
circumstances. 

General Osband's career as commander in independent opera- 
tions here began. 

The records of his raids and fights, while acting under the 
orders of General Canby and the commanders of Mississippi and 
West Tennessee, will be a brilliant chapter in the history yet 
to be written of campaigns in the latter days of the rebellion. 
Radiating from Vicksburg, Memphis and Natchez, from Sep- 
tember, 1864, to April, 1865, he from time to time swept the 
interior for hundreds of miles, with forces of cavalry varying 
from one thousand to five thousand men, engaging the enemy 
many times, and (suffering no defeats or disasters. 

Hood's movement westward and northward, and the movement 
of a considerable portion of Ivirby Smith's troops toward the 
river during; that winter, was the occasion of giving ample em- 
ployment to our cavalry. Its duty was to keep the river clear 
of rebel batteries, to destroy railroads in the interior, to destroy 
depots of supplies to clear out guerrilla bands and spies, and 
to engage such 1 rebel forces as might be found. The figure of 
Osband engaged in this service must linger in the memory of 
many a soldier as the impersonation of energy, vigilance and 
activity. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 55 

With the habitual air of a man used to the necessity of 
prompt and inflexible decision, and keen apprehension and fer 
tility of expedients in eye and speech, with a power of endurance 
whose limit seemed never to be reached, with readiness to com- 
mand, and with the consciousness of the esteem of his com- 
manding officer and the devotion of bis men, "Ned" Osband 
moved and seemed to be, as he really was, every inch a General. 
Of the results of his almost incessant active service during that 
eventful year, it is unnecessary to speak further than that they 
were abundant in prisoners, trophies, and valuable captures. 

He left the service soon after the final surrender. In the 
fall he engaged in planting in the Yazoo Country, gatheiring 
around him a number of his former officers and men. 

Without detracting from the destinction achieved by other 
cavalrymen whom the country has honored, it may be justly said 
that General Osband possessed, in an extraordinary degree, those 
qualities which contribute to success in the most difficult branch 
of the military service, and which would have ultimately won 
him a renown second to that of few others. 

Whatever blemishes may have marred the symmetry of 
his character, his generous and true heart made amends for ; and 
his lively wit and winning speech gave lustre even to his faults. 

The memory of his companioship, glowing temperament, and 
officer-like qualities will long be cherished by many brave men 
who served with and under him, and who will lament his untimely 
deceasie as if it was that of a brother. 

Mrs. Osband, an estimable and accomplished lady, has been 
with him at the South during the last two years, and closed his 
eyes in death. 

He has left, at least, the inheritance of a nobly distinguished 
name and an unstained reputation." 



(From a Detroit paper. ) 

DEATH OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL E. D. OSBAND. 

News of the death of this brave officer has just been received 
by his uncle, E. C. W r alker of this city. He died on his plantation 



66 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

near Skipwith's Landing-, Miss., on the 4th instant, of inflamma- 
tion of the brain. 

General Osband was well known in this city and Chicago. 
He left Chicago at the very outbreak of the war, as First Lieu- 
tenant in Barker's Dragoons, and served the three months of 
•his enlistment in West Virginia under McClellen. 

He then became captain in the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, and 
for two years and a half commanded General Grant's body guard, 
shared in all his battles and sieges, and was in personal contact 
with that distinguished general. 

He organized and led some of the most successful and daring 
raids of the southwest. He was a bold-dasihiing officer in 
whose wisdom and judgment both those above and under him 
had entire confidence. 

Another brave man is added to the long list of the departed 
heroes of the rebellion." 



(From a Chicago paper.) 

DEATH OF GENERAL E. D. OSBAND. 

The friends of Gen. E. D. Osband this morning received 
intelligence of his death at his plantation in Mississippi, on the 
4th instant. 

General Osband had many friends in the Western Army and 
in this city, where he had been a resident for some ten years 
before the breaking out of the rebellion. He was a man of 
generous and good heart, possessing many manly qualities of 
character, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. 

As a citizen, he was honorable and public spirited, and a.s 
a solder and an officer was brave, skilled, daring and ardently 
patriotic. 

He died in the prime of his manhood, being only thirty-four 
years of age." 



(From the Hillside Standard, Hillside, Michigan.) 

"We are under the painful necessity of recording the death 
of one more of the gallant men to whose skill and bravery the 
country is indebted for its preservation. Intelligence has been 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 57 

received of the death of General E. D. Osbaixl. General ( teband 
was widely known. For ten years prior to the war he was a 
resident of Chicago, where his personal acquaintance was large. 

Many friends lament him in common with those who served 
with and under him, for his many endearing qualities as a soldier 
and as a gentleman. 

He organized the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry of which he 
became Colonel, selecting his subordinates from his old com- 
mand, First Battalion, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, losing in its first 
year's service over 200 men and 12 commissioned officers killed 
and wounded, seven of the officers being killed. Among its 
captures were a whole battery of rebel artillery, including men, 
guns, cassons and harness complete after a brilliant sabre charge, 
in October, 1864, at Woodville, Miss. They earned a high re- 
putation by their rapid movements and uniform success, par- 
ticularly in the raid on the Mississippi Central Railroad, in the 
winter of 1864, which resulted in the destruction of the Black 
River Bridge, fifty miles of railroad, large depots of supplies 
and rolling stock, in the very face of a largely superior body 
of the enemy, thereby effectually preventing reenforcements being 
sent from the lower Mississippi country to General Hood, who 
was then sorely pressed by General Thomas. 

The records of General Osband's raids under the orders of 
the commanders of the departments of Tennessee and Mississ- 
ippi will show that to his efforts and those of the brave men who 
served under him, we are largely indebted for the keeping open 
the. Mississippi River and the preventing of re-enforcements 
and supplies being crossed from the idle, well-fed armies under 
Kirby Smith and Dick Taylor to their beaten, discouraged, 
though desperate legions in the East. 

General Osband was personally brave, tireless in energy, 
patriotic to a degree bordering on enthusiasm, with a capability 
to endure fatigue rarely excelled, warm in his friendships, de- 
voted to the welfare of 'his men. 

We of Hillside county are personally interested in doing 
honor to the memory of the late General. 

He was a son-in-law of our esteemed fellow citizen, E. Walter 
Esq., of this State, who with his family thus suffers a second 
bereavement, one son, Lieut. Eugene Walter, having been with 
Lieut. Archibald Stewart, also of this State, killed in action." 



58 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

CHAPTER II. 

THE ORGANIZATION OF THE REGIMENT. 

In September, 1863, Adjutant-General Lorenze Thomas 
visited Yicksburg to iset in motion the work of organizing colored 
troops. 

At the suggestion of General Grant, one regiment of colored 
cavalry was authorized to be raised and equipped at Yicksburg, 
to be designated as the First .V. isMssippi Cavalry, African De- 
scent. This designation was, however, subsequently charged to 
"Third U. S. Colored Cavalry." f 

General Grant took much interest in the organization of this 
regiment, recommending for its colonel, Major E. D. Osband, 
the commander of the General's escort. Company A, Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry. This was a deserved tribute to a worthy ami 
gallant officer. 

As commander of the ''Old Guard," General Grant's escort, 
Major Osband had been under the immediate notice of General 
Grant from the commencement of the war, and that the general 
made no mistake in his estimate of the commander of his escort, 
that officer's subsequent career as colonel and brigadier-general 
commanding cavalry division, was fully demonstrated. 

The field and staff, and many of the line officers of this 
regiment were taken from the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, coming 
largely from the First Battalion of that regiment, companies 
A. B. C. and D. 

As an evidence of General Grant's high estimate of the men 
composing his escort company, the following extract from his 
official report is taken from the Rebellion Records. 



HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OE TENNESSEE, 

Vicksburg, July 6, 1863. 

"In all former reports I have failed to make mention cf 
Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry Volunteers, Captain E. D. 
Osband commanding. 

This company has been on duty with me as an escort com- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 59 

pany since November, 1861, and in every engagement I have 
been in since that time, rendering valuable service, attracting 
general attention for their exemplary conduct, soldierly bearing, 
and promptness. It would not be overstating the merits of 
this company to say that many of them would fill with credit 
any position in a cavalry regiment." 

Provision was made for six white officers in each company 
in this regiment, three commissioned and three non-commissioned, 
the iattoer being the ranking .sergeants, viz. : 

First Sergeant, Quartermaster Sergeant, and Commissary 
Sergeant. 

The non-commissioned staff were all white men. 

These sergeants were selected from the non-commissioned 
officers of veteran regiments, coming highly recommended. 

On receiving their commissions, the officers were detailed 
on recruiting service. They applied themselves to this work with 
a zeal that brought forth the best results. 

The regiment was mustered into the service of the United 
States by companies at Vioksburg, Skipwith's Landing and 
Haynes Bluff, Miss., from October 9, 1863 to March 1, 1864. 
During the time of recruiting and organizing the regiment. 
Colonel Osband retained command of the First Battalion Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry, which, with the recruits of the new regiment, 
formed an independent command, and was stationed at various 
exposed points in the vicinity of Vicksburg, and were constantly 
engaged in picket and scouting duty. 

Within six months of its inception the regiment was fully 
organized and complete in every particular, and stood on an 
equal footing with the veteran cavalry of the department. During 
that period the regiment had taken an active part in many im- 
portant expeditions, had participated in numerous engagements, 
and suffered a loss of many killed and wounded. 

Up to this time the regiment 'had received no horses from 
the government, having only such mounts, horses and mules, 
as they captured from the enemy, or took from the corrals of 
condemned stock. 
f It is worthy of note that this regiment was enlisted, organized 
and drilled in the fieldf) Always on the picket lines, never exempt 
from attack, and always within range of the enemies guns, fre- 
quently leaving the drill ground to repel an attack. 



60 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

It was only by utilizing every spare moment that time was 
found for instruction. Yet rapid progress was made, in fact 
the celerity with which the men acquired a knowledge of their 
duties as soldiers was truly remarkable, and they soon reached 
a standard of excellence that attracted general attention. 

That the regiment did attain a high state of proficiency in 
drill and deportment is shown by the following inspection report. 

This inspection was made during the brief time the regiment 
formed a part of the garrison at Miemphis, Tennessee. 

Nine hundred and fifty enlisted men were lined up for this 
inspection, which took place on a large open space of several 
hundred acres, and lasted from 9 a. m. until 4. p. m. Memphis 
turned out en masse to witness the drill. 



(Inspection Report.) 

HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF TENNESSEE, 

inspector-general's OFFICE, 

Knoxville, August 20, 1865. 

"Attention is respectfully invited to the following extract 
from the letter of advise of Captain S. M. Budlong, Inspector 
District of West Tennessee, accompanying Monthly Inspection 
Report for month of July, 1865. 

THIRD U. S COLORED CAVALRY. 

"The superior condition I find this regiment in, should en- 
title it to a place in active service. They are superior to any 
regiment I have lately inspected in regard to drill. Manual of 
arms, perfect, dismounted drill executed with precision, mounted 
drill also superior, executed with promptness and without fault, 
dressing rapidly. 

Major Main executed all of the evolutions of the regiment 
in my presence, and I could not detect any fault excepting per- 
haps Company "D," evidently the officer's fault, Lieutenant Lar- 



%- 




J. B. COOK, 
Meut. -Colonel Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 61 

rabee, in not giving his command promptly, creating some dif- 
ficulty in alignment and re-formation." 

S. M. Budlong, 
Captain and Inspector District of West Tennessee. 
(0 fiicial,) 

Frank G. Tulliss, 
Captain and Assistant Inspector-General, 
Department of Tennessee. 

{Endorsement. ) 



Headquarters, Department of Tennessee, 

Inspector General's Office, 

Knoxville, August 21, 1865. 

Respectfully referred to Major Main, Third Regiment U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, for bis information. 

By command of Major-General Stoneman, 

Frank G. Tulliss, 
Captain and Assistant Inspector-General, 
Department of Tennessee. 



LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JEREMIAH B. COOK, 

The subject of this sketch was born June 22, 1834, in Lan- 
caster County, State of Pennsylvania, of Quaker parentage. 
Starting out when only fifteen years of age to make his own way 
in the world, 'he engaged in canal boating, and later in flat 
boating on the lower Mississippi, touching at Memphis, Vicks- 
burg, Natchez and New Orleans. Abandoning flat boating, he 
returned home in 1852. 

In 1853, 'he went to California, going by the Nicaragua route, 
where he remained during the following three years. Leaving 
California in 1856, he returned to Pennsylvania by the way of 
Panama. In April, 1867, 'he located in Kansas City, Missouri. 
Leaving Kansas City in March, 1860, he settled in Delevan, 



6 1 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Tazewell County, Illinois, on a quarter section of land, and en- 
gaged in farming. 

H>e enlisted, September, 20th, as a private in company H, 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry. Going to the front with this regiment, 
he took an active part in the battles of Fort Henry, Fort Don- 
elson, Shiloh and all the subsequent battles and campaigns that 
regiment was engaged in up to October 1863, being successively 
promoted to the rank of corporal, sergeant and Second Lieute- 
nant. 

At the assault of Fort Henry, February 6, 1862, being sent 
in advance with a detachment of twelve men, he drove in the 
enemies cavalry pickets, dashing into the outer works and, with 
his own hands, pulled down a confederate flag, which was waving 
over the works. This was the first rebel flag captured by the army 
of the Tennessee. This flag is still in the possession of Col. 
Cook. 

In recognition of his gallantry in action he was, August 1, 
1863, promoted to the rank of second lieutenant, and assigned 
to Company F, which company he thereafter commanded during 
his service in that regiment, the captain being in poor health, 
and the First Lieutenant on detached service. 

On the 28th of December, 1863, having the advance of Gen- 
eral Winslow's brigade with only fourteen men, be charged 
Company 13, of the Third Texas Cavalry, 30 strong, capturing 
8 of them and 20 stand of arms. 

He was commissioned a Major in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, October 15, 1863, and assisted' in the organization of 
that regiment, but did not take rank until a full organization was 
effected. March 1, 1864. 

He was promoted to the Lieutenant-Colonelcy of the regi- 
ment, November 27, 1864, for gallantry in action, as shown 
by the following order : : 



WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFEICE. 

Washington, December 22, 1864. 
General Orders, 
No. 303. 
The following General Orders, No. 81, from the headquar- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 63 

ters. Military Division of West Mississippi, is approved by the 
President of the United States: 



HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DIV. OF WEST MISSISSIPPI. 

New Orleans, La., December 9. 1864. 
General Orders, 
No. 81. 

Subject to the approval of the President of the United States, 
Major J. B. Oook, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, is hereby pro- 
moted to the Lieutenant Colonelcy of that regiment, to date from 
the 27th of November, 1864, in consideration of gallantry dis- 
played by hirn on that day, when, with his men dismounted and 
having nothing but railroad ties for a path, he charged over Big 
Black River Bridge, near Canton, Miss, in the face of a heavy 
fire, driving off the rebel force stationed on the opposite shore 
behind a strong stockade, and destroyed the bridge, by which the 
main line of the rebel General Hood's communication with his 
troops in South Mississippi and Alabama were effectually cut off. 
The Major General commanding the District of West Tennessee 
and Yieksburg styles 1 this affair as one of the most daring and 
heroic acts of the war. 

By order of Ma jar-General E. R. S. Canby. 
C. T. Christenson, 

Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant General. 
By order of Secretary of W^ar. 
E. D. Townsend, 

Assistant Adjutant-General 



(R. R. Vol. XLV, Part 1, />. 778.) 

Lieutenant-Colonel Cook's career in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry was marked throughout by a series of brilliant achieve- 
ments. Colonel Osband having command of the cavalry brigade, 
the command of the regiment devolved upon Lieutenant-Colonel 
Cook a great part of the time, and to whose dash and daring 
many of its brilliant victories are due. Brave and daring to 
recklessness, of splendid physique, standing six feet two in 



64 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

height, with powers of endurance seemingly limitless, he rode 
through the storms of battle unscratched, impervious alike to 
hardships and dangers. 

His early experiences and contact with the .rough side of 
life admirably fitted him for the rougher school of the soldier. 

Always vigilant and aggressive, the first to attack, he gave an 
enemy no time to prepare for action. Stopping not to count the 
numbers of his adversary, he impetuously led his men to the 
charge, sweeping aside all opposition. 

Possessing the confidence of his superiors and the admiration 
of his men, the most hazardous duty was undertaken with as- 
surance of success. 

Under more favorable circumstances, the way being open to a 
broader field, he would have achieved greater distinction. 

The subject of this sketch furnishes a striking example of the 
volunteer soldier of the civil war, who, jumping to arms at his 
country'is call, moved by patriotism alone, entered the ranks to 
fight her battles, and without friends or influence, by sheer 
force of merit, won a place among the heroes of the war, 
and who, when the strife was ended, 'divesting themselves of war's 
habiliments, returned to the pursuits of civil life, taking up the 
work where they laid it down, and with the same energy 
that characterized their conduct during the war, set to work 
to repair the havoc wrought by four years of bloody strife, still 
winning, in civil life, high encomiums from their fellow citizens. 

At the close of the war, immediately after the regiment was 
mustered out of the service, January 26, 1866, Colonel Cook en- 
gaged in planting cotton in Arkansas, planting one thousand 
acres, but disposing of his crop (before it reached maturity, 
he returned to his farm in Illinois, devoting himself to its 
improvement. He was appointed, in 1868, to a government posi- 
tion in the revenue service, serving two years with credit. 

In 1870, he was nominated for representative in the state 
legislature, by the republicans of Tazewell County, but failed 
of election, the entire county ticket being defeated. Disposing 
of his farm, he moved to Kansas in 1871, settling on a half 
section of unimproved land in Labette County, near Ohetopa, 
which he brought to a high state of cultivation. 

In 1873, he removed to Chetopa and engaged in the real estate 







(4 




-*s£!3Sk 




V 


■ .$p^ ■ 



WIIJJAM T. BEADLES, 
Major and Surgeon Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 65 

and loan business, in which he was associated with J. M. Cavaness, 
editor and proprietor of the Ohetopa Advance, in connection 
with which they established the Settlers' Guide, a paper devoted 
to the interests of immigration, through the agency of which, 
hundreds of worthy settlers sought homes on the fertile lands 
of Kansas, adding to its population, wealth and prosperity. 

He was one of the incorporators of the Neosho Valley Im- 
provement Company, also one of the projectors of the Denver, 
Memphis and Atlanta Railroad, being president of the first 
named company. 

In 1881, he was elected Mayor of Chetopa, re-elected, and 
served three consecutive terms. He represented his home county 
in the Kansas Legislature in the sessions 1885-6. He introduced 
and secured the passage of a number of important measures, 
among them the following: 

A bill to establish a Soldiers Orphan Home. A bill to maintain 
destitute Union soldiers in their homes, by county aid. A 
bill providing, at county expense, for the burial of destitute 
Union soldiers, and to erect suitable headstones to mark their 
graves. 



CHAPTER III. 
the; black troopers in battle. 

On the 9th of October 1863, the first company (A) was mus- 
into the service, with the following named officers : W. W. Web- 
ber, Captain, formerly Second Lieutenant. Company C, Fourth) 
Illinois Cavalry, Frank W. Calais, First Lieutenant, formerly 
bugler Company D, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, James S. Matthews, 
Second Lieutenant, formerly Corporal Company C, Fourth Illi- 
nois Cavalry. 

Soon after this company was mustered into the service it 
joined the First Battalion, Fourth Illinois Cavalry in an ex- 
pedition in the rear of Yicksburg. 

This expedition covered a wide scope of country east of the 
Yazoo river. 

This raiding force consisted of a hundred and thirty men and 



C6 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

offieers'of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, and forty enlisted men of 
Company A, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, the 'latter commanded 
by Captain Webber and Lieutenant Matthews, all under the 
command of Colonel Osband. 

The object of this raid was to gather up stock, beef cattle, 
horses and mules for the use of the army in Vicksbu-rg, and inci- 
dently secure recruits for the new regiment. 

Ordinarily so small a force would not have been sent into the 
enemy's country, swarming as it was with rebel cavalry, but 
a large Union force of infantry and artillery having left Yicks- 
burg a day or two previous, going in the direction of Jackson 
and Meridian, the time was thought to be favorable for such a 
move, as it was believed that the rebel cavalry would be kept 
busy by the force above mentioned. But subsequent events 
proved how deceptive appearances are sometimes. Cavalry move 
rapidly, especially under great provocation, the provocation in 
this instance being an earnest appeal from the citizens of that 
vicinity to be saved from the ravages of a Yankee foraging party, 
which brought a force of five hundred rebel cavalry to the rescue. 

Leaving Vicksfburg, the command moved in a northeasterly 
direction, keeping well back in the hill country. The plan 
was to make a wide circuit, and return by the valley road, which 
ran along the Yazoo River. 

At the expiration of two days, the command had gathered 
up a large number of beef cattle, horses and mules, which as the 
number increased, greatly hindered and embarrassed the move- 
ments of the command, and, of course greatly exasperated the 
people fiom whom the stock was taken, and no wonder they 
appealed to the rebel general for relief. 

Moving at daylight on the morning of the third day, the 
command headed westward toward Satartia. Captain Charles 
H. Chapin, commanding Company D, Fourth Illinois cavalry, 
was sent to visit a neighboring plantation, with orders to join the 
command at a point where the ridge road intersected the 
valley road. Up to this time no indications of the enemy 
had been seen. 

The command moved leisurely along in order to give Captain 
Chapin time to make the circuit of the plantation he was to visit. 

When near the village of Satartia, the advace guard under 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 67 

Lieutenant Dickey, Fourth Illinois, were furiously attacked 
by a large force of rebel cavalry. 

Though 1 Lieutenant Dickey and his men met the charge of 
the enemy with great gallantry, they were forced back onto the 
head of the main column. 

The rebels had taken a well chosen position where, under cov- 
er of a deep ravine and the wooded hills that flanked the road, 
they had every advantage in their favor. When the firing 
commenced. Lieutenant Main, Fourth Illinois Cavalry Com- 
manding Company A, of that regiment was in the rear of the 
column, but flanking the road, he brought his company on the gal- 
lop to the front, when, with his own and companies B, and C, of 
the Fourth Illinois, and company A, of the Third U. S. he 
led fhiem in a charge that threw the enemy into great confusion, 
dislodging them from their position and drawing them into the 
open, thus completely turning the tables as regarded position. 

In this charge, Captain Webber and Lieutenant Matthews 
led their company into the thickest of the fray, where they fought 
hand to hand, using revolvers and sabres, and when Captain 
Webber fell, wounded, his men ^seemed frenzied, and with a yell 
swept everything before them. 

Immediately on meeting the enemy, Colonel Osband dis- 
patched a swift courier to bring Captain Chapin to the scene, 
but that officer hearing the firing and divining its cause, headed 
his company for the scene of action, putting his horses to their 
best speed, arriving on the ground with a yell that further dis- 
concerted the enemy, they believing that large re-inforcements 
had arrived. 

The command, when attacked was marching toward the 
valley road, which.' ran along the east bank of the Yazoo river. 
Satartia is situated a little back from the river, among the hills, 
the intervening country being open, level ground. It was now the 
object of the command to cross this open ground and reach the 
shelter of the heavy timber along the river. 

The enemy, after their first repulse, fell back and took up a 
position on an adjacent hill, where they still command to some 
extent, the approach to the valley road. Though they were 
pretty badly shaken up, and had suffered considerable loss in 
killed, wounded, and prisoners falling into our hands, they 
still showed a disposition to further contest the right of way. 



68 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Acting with his characteristic promptness and foresight, 
Colonel Osband, after a hurried consultation with Captain Chapin 
and Lieutenant Main, suggested a line of action by which 
Lieutenant Main was to take one hundred men of the Fourth 
Illinois cavalry and make a demonstration against the enemy, 
while Captain Chapin, with the rest of the command, should 
conduct the wagons and captured stock across the open ground 
to the shelter of the woods along the river. Our men 'being 
partially under cover of a scrubby growth of trees and bushes 
growing along the creek, the enemy were unable to correctly 
estimate our numbers, and probably thought we had a much 
larger force than we really had. 

One of the prisoners remarked, "By the way youens fit, 
weans through youens had a thousand men." Lieutenant Main, 
carrying out his orders, moved his men under cover of a deep 
ravine, dismounted, taking a position between the enemy and 
the valley road, where at long range, he opened a galling fire 
on them without exposing his mien. The inferior arms of the 
rebels failed to reach the Union line, and Lieutenant Main, slow- 
ly advancing his line, the enemy were forced still further back. 
From this position a galling fire was kept up on the enemy while 
the movement across the open ground was successfully accom- 
plished. In the meantime, however, the rebels, seeing the turn 
things were taking redoubled their efforts to break through 
Lieutenant Main's line, but the troopers of the Fourth Illinois 
were veterans of many hard fought battles, and stood their 
ground, pouring in a fire from their long-range carbines that 
the rebels could not face. 

As the long column under Captain Chapin disappeared in the 
woods along the Yazoo, Lieutenant Main abandoned his position 
and, mounting his men, retreated across the open ground, closely 
followed by the enemy, who, as they approached the timber, 
received the compliments of Captain Chapin's men, who had 
taken position in the edge of the timber, thus covering the 
retieat of Lieutenant Main and his men, one of whom, however, 
poorly mounted, his horse lagging behind, only escaped the up- 
lifted sabre of a rebel soldier by a shot from the woods, which 
stretched his horse upon the ground. 

At this point Lieutenant Main took the rear with companies 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 09 

A and B, Fourth Illinois, and the command moved down the 
valley road toward Yicksburg. 

After entering the' woods the enemy became bolder and 
more agressive, but a few lessons in 'bushwhacking and nicely 
arranged ambuscades soon caused them to be more cautious. 
However, they kept up a spirited pursuit until dark. 

An incident occurred during this retreat which came well 
nigh bringing on another general engagement. One of our 
wag'Ons broke down, and as it contained our rations, the load 
had to be transferred to another wagon, which caused some 
delay. The enemy were pressing us hard, and Colonel Osband 
sent back word, asking if the enemy could be held until the 
load could be shifted from the broken wagon. Of course we could 
only do ouir best. We were in the open, having just left the timber, 
which was immediately occupied by the advance guard of the 
enemy, we could not stand out there in the open and be shot down. 
A bold dash must be made. Soldiers will fight for their rations, 
so we charged back, regaining possession of the timber before 
the main body of the enemy came up, where we made a successful 
stand, holding the enemy at bay temporarily, but our position 
became well nigh untenable by the time the column was in 
condition to move on again. 

In this charge, two men of company B, Fourth Illinois 
Cavalry, were shot off their horses, fortunately, however, they 
were not dangerously hurt, but they had to be put in the wagon. 

When night fell, the enemy ceased the pursuit, and later on the 
command Bivouacked for the night, a heavy rain following. The 
command took shelter behind some old breast works about fif- 
teen miles from Yicksburg. 

The men were completely worn out, having been in the saddle 
'since four o'clock that morning. That night the men slept on then- 
arms, an attack being expected, but the night passed quietly 
though sleeplessly in a drenching rain. 

Through the trying scenes of that day, fighting from ten 
a.m. till dark, the black troopers acquitted themselves with great 
credit winning the confidence and good will of the white soldiers. 
Indeed there was no wavering in the ranks of the colored soldiers. 
Captain Webber and Lieutenant Matthews held them under the 
most galling fire as steadily as veteran troops. Quite a number 



70 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

of them were wounded, some seriously, but they made light of 
it. 

An amusing incident occurred during the fight at Satartia ; 
jn the first charge the rebels became scattered through the brush- 
grown ravine, and during a lull in the fighting, a Fourth Illi- 
nois cavalryman was sent out on the flank to watch the movements 
of the enemy. This trooper, in urging his horse through the 
brush and high weeds, indulged in numerous expletives such as, 

"Get out of here you d , I'll fill you full of lead," when to 

his great amazement, a rebel soldier, biding in the brush and 
supposing these remarks were intended for him, rose up exclaim- 
ing, "Don't shoot, I'll surrender," whereupon our trooper was so 
completely dazed that he threw down his gum and implored the 
rebel not to shoot, declaring himself a willing prisoner. How this 
affair might have terminated had these two valiant foes been 
left to themselves, can only be surmised, as their embarrassing 
position was relieved by the timely appearance of a third party, 
another Fourth Illinois cavalryman, who, appreciating the sit- 
uation, made them both prisoners. 

This incident furnishes additional proof of the fact that a 
really brave soldier may, under certain circumstances, lose his 
presence of mind and become "rattled." 

This victory was won over great odds, one hundred and 
seventy five against five hundred, and the advantage of position 
with the stronger party. 

Tiie writer owes his life and everlasting gratitude to Ser- 
geant Wing, Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, subsequently 
Captain Company C, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, who struck 
down a rebel officer as his sabre was descending on the writer's 
head. 

It was during the first charge, when the fighting was fast 
and furious. 

The two bodies of cavalry came together with a crash that 
shook the earth, mien and horses going down in a promiscuous 
scramble. 



MAJOR CHARLES H. CHAPIN. 

Major Chapin was born September 27, 1833, in Onedia Coun- 
ty, State of New York. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 71 

He enlisted, April 19, 1861, in Barker's Chicago Dragoons 
for three months, the company serving as General McClellen's 
escort during his West Virginia Campaign. 

This company being the only cavalry force in that command 
did all the scouting and picket duty. At the battle of Rich 
Mountain, the company took an active part, leading the advance 
of the army. The subject of this sketch was frequently engaged 
as an independent scout, winning praise for his daring and 
useful services in that capacity. Returning to Chicago at the 
expiration of his term of enlistment, he re-enlisted in company 
A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, then being organized at Ottawa, 
Illinois by Colonel T. Lyle Dickey. 

A born leader of men, brave, self reliant and agressive, 
promotion came fast. 

These qualities being recognized he was, from the start, 
made a Sergeant in his company, and subsequently Sergeant- 
major of the regiment, Second Lieutenant October 5, 1861, and 
assigned to company H, First Lieutenant March 1, 1862, Captain 
August, 1863, and assigned to company D, Major Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, October 15, 1863. 

Following the fortunes of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry through 
the brilliant campaigns of this regiment, which crowned the 
Union army with the splendid victories of Fort Donelson. 
Shiloh and Vicksburg, his record is closely interwoven with 
the history of that famous regiment on whose banners are in- 
scribed a long list of brilliant victories, in all of which he played 
a conspicuous part. Brave, cool-headed and tireless in the per- 
formance of every duty, Major Chapin won the love and admi- 
ration of his men and the confidence and high esteem of his 
superiors. If a bold leader was wanted for some arduous and 
dangerous duty, requiring dash, nerve and tact, he was invar- 
iably singled out for the task. Riding foremost in the thickest 
of the fight, he inspired his men with a courage and confidence 
that met and overcame all obstacles, 

In the broader field— as Major in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, commanding a battalion and frequently the regiment 
he came to the front as one of the most dashing cavalry officers 
in the Western army. 

As commander of the First Battalion, stationed at Goodrich's 
Landing, Louisiana, in the spring and summer of 1864, acting 



72 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

independently, bis dash and genius as a successful cavalry leader 
was recognized by General Canby, who trusted him with the duty 
of freeing that section of the irregular bands of Confederate 
cavalry who were interrupting navigation on the Mississippi 
River. 

It was with such officers as Major Chapin that the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry was able to win victories and win a name second 
to no regiment in the Western Army. With officers less brave, 
resourceful and patriotic these victories could not have been 
won. 



CHAPTER IV 



The Regiment goes into winter quarters at Skipwith's Land- 
ing. In obedience to the following order, the regiment proceeded 
to Skipwith's Landing, Mississippi. 

HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, 

Vicksburg, Miss. November 9, 1863, 
Major E. D. Osband, 

Commanding Battalion Fourth Illionois Cavalry. 

Major — You will proceed to-morrow morning with your com- 
mand, including the colored men whom you have enlisted, to 
fiaynes Bluff by land, where a steamboat will be in readiness to 
feny you across the Yazoo river. 

From that point you will make a scout up through the country 
west of the Yazoo and through the Deer Creek country, to break 
up and destroy any bands of the enemy you may hear of, and 
finally cross to Skipwith's Landing, where you will establish your 
camp and recruit your colored regiment. 

During the expedition you will, of course, gather up what colored 
men you can, who are fit for service, to fill up your regiment. 

You will refrain as far as possible from molesting or interfer- 
ing with citizens who are well disposed toward the U. S. govern- 
ment, and who are remaining quitely at their homes. Especially 
in the vicinity of Skipwith's Landing are many loyal people who 
are not to be disturbed and whose families and property you will 
protect. 




S. V. W. WHITING, 
3t Lieut, and Quartermaster Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 73 

The 'steamboat Chenango will be at Haynes Bluff shortly 
after your arrival to fe r ry you across the river. 

You will leave your quartermaster and a detail of men to 
load your stores, camp and garrison equipage, and transportation 
on board steamboat here to be sent- to Skipwith's Landing. 

You will make the required returns and reports to these 
headquarters, and keep me advised of everything important which 
may come to your knowledge. 

Very respectfully, yor.t obedient servant, 

Jas. B. MoPherson, 

Major-General. 

As directed, Colonel Osband proceeded with his command to 
Skipwith's Landing. The march covering several days, was 
through the enemy's country, but was made without serious op- 
position. Small bands of rebel calvary were encountered here and 
there, who were easily brushed aside. 

The command reached its destination on the 13th. Skipwith's 
Landing is situated on the east bank of the Mississippi river, about 
one hundred miles above Vicksburg, Mississippi, which place, 
then as now, is tributary to one of the richest cotton producing 
sections of the South, known as the Yazoo delta. 

Cotton plantations of vast extent abounded in this section, one 
of the largest being that of General Wade Hampton. 

Thousands of slaves were formerly owned and kept on these 
plantations, which, with their large gin-houses, outbuildings and 
negro quarters, all whitewashed, presented a picturesque appear- 
ance. 

Skipwith's Lauding was simply a landing place for steam- 
boats plying their trade on the Mississippi river. Here they 
discharged their freight — plantation supplies — and took on cotton 
for the New Orleans market. 

A camp ground was selected close to the landing place, just 
over the levee, whe/e, on a grassy plat, tents weie pitched. Here 
the command remained until the following spring, doing scouting 
duty. The camp was kept in a state of constant alarm by reason of 
threatened attacks by the enemy. In the frequent scouts into the 
interior the command frequently met the enemy in considerable 
force. 



74 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

(Report of Colonel B. D. Osband, Third U. S. Colored- 
Cavalry, Commanding Post.) 

HEADQUARTERS POST, 

Skipwittis Landing, Miss. 
. November 15, 1863, 

Colonel: — I ha v.? the honor to report that my command, con- 
sisting of the First Battalion, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, and three 
companies of the First Mississippi Cavajry (African Descent) 
300 strong, in pursuance of instructions from the Major-General 
commanding, left Vicksburg at 1 1 a. m. the 10th instant, arriving 
at and crossing the Yazoo rive at Anthony's Fei ry in the after- 
noon, camping for the night at the ferry, on the north side of the 
river. Marched ai daylight on the 11th 1 , crossing Deer Creek at 
Black Fork, and moving up on die east side of it to within seven 
miles of Rolling Fork, and camped for the night on Clark's plan- 
tation, a march of 37 miles. 

Learning that Barksdale's (Mississippi) Cavalry and the 
Seventh Texas Cavalry, about 700 strong, had been at Rolling 
Fork four days previously an I had disabled the; bridges across 
that stream and Deer Creek, at daylight on the 12th, I re-crossed 
Deer creek, and arrived at the Mississippi river near Tallulah 
Court House, and camped at the landing opposite Lake Provi- 
dence. 

Marched at 6 a. m., 13th instant, and arrived at this place at 
12m. 

I met no enemy and obtained no recruits, the route of march 
being through a deserted and abandoned country, and am now 
satisfied, from information which I regard as reliable, that the 
two regiments of confederate cavalry came from Yazoo City to 
intercept my march here. Failing to find us, they returned in the 
same direction with what conscripts, horses, mules, hogs and 
negroes they could obtain. 

About fifty men of the same class remained across Deer 
Creek, engaged in the same business. 

I leave to-morrow morning with 170 men of my command, 
accompanied by Lieutenant Lee, Thirty-second Ohio Volunteers, 




PHILIP WOI.FERSBERGER, 
1st Lieut, and Commissary Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 75 

and shall proceed beyond the Sunflower, if practicable, to assist 
Lieutenant Lee anil to recruit. 

I am, Colonel, vtry respectfully your obedient servant, 

E. D. C'SBAND, 

Colonel Commanding. 

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, W. T. CLARK, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 



MAJOR COOK ORDERED TO ROEBUCK LAKE AND KONEY ISLAND. 

At an early hour on the morning of November 19, 1863, Major 
Cook left camp with a force of 150 men and officers, made up of 
detachments from companies A., B. and C, of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, with orders to proceed to Roebuck Lake and 
thence t'J Honey Island on the Yazoo river, a distance of a hun- 
dred miles or more. 

Aside from the opportunity afforded to secure recruits and 
the moral effect ic might have, the object of this raid does not 
appear. 

The .mpractibihty of reaching Honey Island should have been 
known befoie the start was made. Even had the command suc- 
ceeded in effecting a crossing of Deer creek, Bayou Philiar and 
other streams, there was no possible means of reaching Honey 
Island lying out in the Yazoo river. 

On leaving camp, Major Cook proceeded up the Mississippi 
river about fifteen miles, following the levee, when he made a 
short halt to feed his horses at a large plantation, posting a picket 
of a corporal and three men at a point where th'ey had a view of 
the road for some distance without being seen themselves, a curve 
in the levee hiding them from view. This picket had been posted 
but a short time when they saw a horseman approaching from the 
north, coming down the levee toward them ; as he came within 
hailing distance, the picket covered him with their guns and 
commanded him to dismount. Thus caught, the man had to 
choose between unconditional surrender and being is'hbt; wisely 
he chose the former. He was taken to Major Cook, and proved 
to be a Confederate officer, Captain Johnson, of the 28th Arkansas 
infantry. He was sent back to camp under guard of the men who 
captured him. 



76 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Moving on up the river, the command camped that night 
on the Worthington plantation, about thirty miles from Skipwith's 
Landing. 

This plantation was situated in one of the richest cotton grow- 
ing sections of the south, and was typical of the old regime when 
cotton was King. It embraced many acres of rich cotton land, 
extending as far as the eye could reach, to till which required. a 
large number of slaves, who in ante bellum days, contributed so 
much to the material development and prosperity of the South. 

At the time of which 1 we write, the blighting effects of the war 
was everywhere visible, the fields no longer bloomed with the 
fleecy staple, nor resounded with the happy songs of the planta- 
tion darkies. No rich harvest was in prospect, weeds and 
brambles grew where once the cotton bloomed, verily its grandure 
had departed — gone out in the blaze of secession. Its glory had 
vanished with the hrst blast of war that beat upon it. Built on a 
foundation of sand, its corner stone human slavery, it toppled 
over at the first blast proclaiming emancipation. 

The slaves heard the thunder of the Union guns, speaking in 
the voice of freedom, and they deserted the plantations and flocked 
to the Union camp-, leaving the plow in the furrow and, in many 
instances, taking the mules with them. 

There was something pathetic in the contemplation of the rise 
and fall of this recked and abandoned plantation. 

A few old, dcrepit darkies, relics of by-gone days, sit 
crooning in their cabin doors, waiting for the promised day of 
jubilee, while the pickaninnies gamboled on the green, neglected 
and depreciated propertv. 

The white male portion of the place were conspicuous by their 
absence, presumably away fighting the battles of the confederacy. 

The ladies of the old manor house held themselves rigidly 
aloof, and seemed disinclined to allow the colored people to com- 
municate with the soldiers, and withal, there seemed to be an air 
of mystery pervading the whole cdmosphere around this planta- 
tion, and the officers were not long in discovering that they were 
unwelcome visitors. 

No amount of fine diplomacy could elicit a grain of informa- 
tion regarding the country, the people, roads, &c, to all inquiries 
the reply was "don't know." The polite and kindly proffer of a 
guard being placed around their house if they felt in the least 
insecure, they scornfully rejected. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 77 

They also seen. eel to look upon the command as the victim 
of some avenging nemesis. Though treated with marked kindness 
and consideration, ihey remained sullen and uncommunicative. 
This grave-like silence had a depressing influence- on the com- 
mand, hushing the song and laughter that usually enlivens the 
camp and bivouac. As a cause of the gloomy silence, some of 
the officers suggested that pe.-haps some one lay dead in the 
house. Soldiers are quick to "catch on," their training and 
experience sharpens their faculties and makes them distrustful 
and self-reliant in ;imes of danger. Like the barometer indi- 
cating the coming storm, so with the experienced soldier, who 
by intuition feels the subtle influence warning him to be on his 
guard. On this occasion all felt that some secret plotting was 
going on that boded ill to the command, but none voiced their 
thoughts. 

Was there a lurking foe within striking distance? Was there 
meaning in the furtive glances exchanged between the inmates 
of the house? Were they watching for an opportunity to send 
a message to some one? These and kindred questions are what 
a mind-reader would have discovered in the thoughts of the 
officers. Yet not a word was spoken. But as the shades of 
night settled down over the scene, and a chain guard of trusty 
sentinels were placed around the plantation houses, with strict 
orders to permit no one to approach or leave the premises under 
any circumstances, and every approach to the camp closely 
guarded, then all felt relieved. Those in authority had read the 
signs, which to an experienced cavalry officer was as plain as an 
open book. 

Arms and ammunition were carefully looked to, pickets 
double. 1 and the troops disposed of for the night in a manner 
best suited to meet an attack. No "Taps" was 'sounded— no bugle 
blast broke the evening quiet to guide an enemy to the camping 
place. Quietly the soldiers lay down to sleep, their arms within 
ready reach, and the officers keeping one ear to the ground. 

Happily, however, the night passed quietly, due in all prob- 
ability to the precautions taken, it being subsequently ascertained 
that a force of rebel cavalry were in the immediate vicinity \ and 
had the people on the plantation been allowed an opportunity to 
send a message to them an attack would most certainly have been 
made that night. 



i$ Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

The command was in the saddle at an early hour on the fol- 
lowing- morning and ready for any emergency. Continuing up 
the river, Greenville was reached about noon, where a short halt 
was made during a drenching rain storm. 

The town was as silent as a graveyard ; in fact seemed almost 
deserted, the only signs of life visible being here and there a 
scared face peering through half closed blinds. No information 
regarding the whereabouts of the enemy could be gained from 
any one. 

Leaving Greenville, the column turned east, reaching Deer 
Creek about 4 p. m., at a point fifteen miles inland from the 
Mississippi river, where the command camped for the night. 

A CLOSE CALL FOR A REBEL MAJOR-GENERAL. 

Soon after going into camp on the night last mentioned, a 
negro boy informed Major Cook that "massa captain done got 
hum frum de army, 'spec he be mighty skeered if he know de 
Yankees dat clus." A few questions put to the boy, made it 
plain that the said captain was a person of some importance, 
and the place being but a few miles further up Deer Creek, 
Captain Webber was ordered to take a detachment of his com- 
pany and proceed to the place designated and capture and bring 
in the rebel officer, taking the boy with him as a guide. 

Captain Webber arrived at the place 1 some time after dark 
and quietly surrounded the house and applied for admittance. He 
was graciously received and on making known the object of his 
unseasonable call, was informed that the General was not at 
home, he having taken his departure a short time befone. 

Quite a number of gentlemen were present, they having 
called, they said, to bid the general bon voyage. Further in- 
vestigation, however, developed the fact that, in the first flurry 
of excitement incident to the appearance of the Union troop- 
ers, the General jumped through a window and favored by 
the dense shrubbery growing around the house, made his way 
to the stable, where mounting one of the visitor's horses ready 
saddled, he made his escape. 

In^read of a captain, as the boy had stated, the officer proved 
to be Major-General French, of the Confederate army. 

General French was, it seemed, taking the benefit of a short 
leave of absence — spending a few days with his family at his 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 79 

plantation home on Deer Creek, which being remote from the 
active scenes of war, was deemed quite safe. 

Fifteen fine horses were taken from the general's plantation, 
some of them the property of his visitors — the gentlemen who 
had cal'ed to pay their respects to the distinguished general. 
These animals were retained for the use of the regiment. 

The command resumed the march on the following morning, 
following the east bank of Deer Creek, for some distance, and 
failing to effect a crossing, the creek being bank full, Major 
Cook found it impossible to carry out his instructions, and there- 
fore abandoned the attempt to reach Roebuck Lake and Honey 
Island, and the command turned west toward Skipwith's Land- 
ing, where it arrived late that night. 

The result of this raid was, one prisoner capture.!, twenty 
recruits secured and forty head of horses and mules cap : :ored. 

The following is Colonel Osband's report : 



HEADQUARTERS POST. 

Skipzvith's Landing, Miss., November 23, 1863. 

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM T. CLARK. 

Assistant Adjutant-General, Seventeenth Army Corps. 

Colonel : — I have the honor to report that the expedition 
to Roebuck Lake returned yesterday without accomplishing the 
object; the bad state of the roads together with the distance 
deterred the officer in command from going to the extent of 
his instructions. 

It was found that no enemy was in this country this side 
of the Yazoo River. 

Another scout returning the 21st, brings sixty cattle, 
so that we can subsist some time so far as beef is concerned. 

I have given the gun-boats some of the captured beef, they 
have no means of -supply. 

I find almost all the people eminently loyal and do not upon 
any scout or march take any property from them. There are 
however, in this country some bitter confederates; among the 
list is Parson Harris, who married Miss Helen Tohnson. 



80 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Han is was expelled from Nashville and came here and mar- 
ried Miss Johnson. 

He now resides at Canton, Miss. 

I have taken the cattle from his place and purpose to take 
the sweet-potatoes or such of them as are not needed by the 
negroes for their support, and the furniture in the house for- 
merly used as General Furguson's headquarters. 

Should I not take it, the negroes will destroy it. Shall I 
send the furniture to Vicksburg or Memphis? 

Something like a week must elapse before I can move, as 
my horses are very tired. I purpose then, after destroying the 
ferries, moving up the Yazoo and Clear Creek to Roebuck Lake, 
thence back to Deer Creek, Rolling Fork, and home. 

I have expelled the cotton buyers from my lines as they had 
no authority from any one to purchase cotton. 

Can a man ship cotton to Memphis, going with it himself, with- 
out a permit from the Treasury Department? 
I am Colonel, very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Col. First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. 
Commanding Post. 



Captain Andrew Emery 

Was born in Hancock County, State of Maine, January 5, 
1833. 

Going west at the age of 22, he settled in Lockport, Illinois, 
in 1855. 

He enlisted under the first call for troops, April, 1861, for 
three months, in a company of Lockport Light Artillery. At 
the expiration of his three imonthis' term of service he re-enlisted 
in Company D, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, in which regiment he 
took an active part in the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh 
and in all the subsequent battles, skirmishes and campaigns 
of that regiment up to the time of the fall of Vicksburg, 
winning the golden opinions of his superior officers, notably 
at the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh, being promoted to 
the rank of First duty Sergeant for meritorious conduct. 




Capt. ANDREW EMERY 
Third l". S C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 81 

In a skirmish in 1862, he, being cut off from his company, 
charged through the enemy's lines midst a shower of bullets, 
the rebels shouting " shoot that Yank," for which he received 
the sobriquet of "Yank," and which h'as clung to him to this day. 
He was discharged from the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, October 
15, 1863, for promotion as captain of the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, in which regiment he served with marked distinction 
until the close of the war, being mustered out with the regiment, 
January 26, 1866. 

The familiar figure of Captain "Yank," as he was called by his 
brother officers, leading his troopers on scout and in battle will 
always linger in the memory of the survivors of the regiment. 

On a closely contested field, conspicuous by his height, six 
feet, he was a tower of strength, inspiring confidence by the 
example of his matchless daring and unconquerable determination. 

With such officers the regiment was able to win victories. 



CHAPTER V. 

A RAID ACROSS THE RIVER IN LOUISIANA AND ARKANSAS. 

The Bocuf River Fight, December 13, 1863. 

The command had been inactive for some time, and the 
dull routine of camp duty had become irksome to both officers 
and men, when dame rumor spread the report that a scout across 
the river was in contemplation. 

A little inquiry developed the fact that Colonel Osband 
had received orders from Yicksburg to make a demonstration 
on the west side of the Mississippi River and to press into 
service the first steamer sighted, to be used in transferring the 
command to the west side of the river. 

There was no need to set a watch, all were on the lookout 
for a boat ; they had not long to wait, however, for the next 
day, December 10, 1863, a large steamer was sighted coming 
up the river. The boat was signaled to land, but not heeding 
the signal, the request was emphasized by a shot from a six 
pounder, sent hurtling across her bows which brought her 
to the bank. 



82 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

The steamer was immediately taken possession of by art 
officer acting under orders from Colonel Osband, and the em- 
barkation of the troops commenced at once, and by 2 p. m. 
that day the command was landed on the west bank of the 
river, in Louisiana, about twenty miles below the Arkansas 
state line. 

The troops comprising this expedition were as follows ; 

One 'hundred and twenty five men exclusive of officers, 
detailed from companies A, B, and C, Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, under command of Major J. B. Cook, and seventy- 
five enlisted men of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, under command 
of First Lieutenant Ed. M. Main, making a total force of two 
hundred enlisted men, the whole under command of Major 
Chas. H. Chapin. Included in this force wiene a number of 
officers of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, commissioned 
but not assigned, who accompanied the expedition as recruit- 
ing officers. 

On disembarking on the west side of the river, the command 
marched inland about eight miles and camped for the night. 

The march was resumed at an early 'hour on the following 
morning, moving in a westerly direction, crossing Bayou Macon, 
and continuing still westerly to Boeuf River, thence north along 
the east side of the last named stream, passing through a French 
settlement. The march up to this time was without incident 
worthy of note, but from this point on, well mounted scouts 
appeared in our front, who were hotly pursued, but being 
mounted on swift horses, they evaded capture. Several sus- 
picious characters were, however, run down and captured, some 
of them proving to be rebel soldiers. The command con- 
tinued its march along the east side of Boeuf River until the 
Arkansas state line was reached, where it camped on the night 
of the 12th being then in Chicot County, Arkansas. The com- 
mand camped this night on the plantation of Mr. Merri weather. 
This plantation was situated on a slight ridge running along 
the edge of a dense, boggy swamp lying between the 
plantation and Boeuf River, perhaps half a mile in extent at 
this point. 

The road ran along the edge of the swamp. The plantation 
buildings, standing a little back, faced the road, and were inclosed 
bv a rail fence. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 83 

These buildings were all built of logs, the main residence 
having two large rooms, a hall and front porch. The smoke- 
house stood a little to the rear of the main dwelling, and a little 
further back and to the right were several negro cabins. The 
gin-house stood about two hundred yards north of the other 
buildings. 

Jt being late in the evening and quite dark when the com- 
mand camped, but a very limited knowledge of the place and 
its surrounding ooukl be gained. The usual precautions, 
however, were taken to guard the camp, pickets being posted 
on all the known roads, also a camp guard posted. 

The troops were disposed of for the night as follows : 

The Fourth Illinois Cavalry detachment was camped at 
the gin-'house, and the colored soldiers in and about the negro 
cabins. Majors Chapin and Cook, and Lieutenant Main oc- 
cupied one of the large rooms in the main dwelling, where the 
prisoners, fifteen in all, were also kept, a guard being placed 
over them. 

Nothing occurred during the night to disturb the camp. 
Eariy the next morning, some time before daylight, the men 
were awakened, horses fed and saddled and coffee made, that 
and hardtack being the breakfast. 

The morning was dark, cold and chilly, and the soldiers 
were sipping their coffee around the camp-fires, which were 
burning brightly, when, without a moments warning, the stillness 
was broken by the 1 blinding flash and report of five hundred 
shot-guns followed by the rebel yell, which we had all learned 
to know so well. 

The officers, veterans of many hard fought battles, realized 
at once what it meant — a fight to the death. The quick, sharp 
commands of the officers, "Fall in," rang out above the din of 
the tumult. Some one shouted, "Kick out the fires," which 
was promptly done. Majors Chapin and Cook, pistols in hand, 
rushed out of the house midst a storm of bullets and, by their 
example and utter disregard of danger, encouraged the men to 
stand their ground. 

In a trice the black troopers were facing the enemy, return- 
ing shot for shot and yell for yell. The officers of the black 
troopers had their men under complete 1 control, absolute obedience 



84 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

was a part of their training, and the officers were able to handle 
them with consummate effectiveness. 

The enemy had every advantage, were vastly superior in 
numbers, better armed for close quartens, haveing double 1 bar- 
reled shot-guns, chose their own position and mode of attack, 
and 'had a complete knowledge of the country. 

It was therefore only the cool daring and skill of the Union 
officers, the fine discipline and complete 1 control they had over 
their men that enabled them to beat back their assailants and 
snatch victory from what seemed certain destruction to the 1 black 
troopers. 

Captain Emery, commanding Company B, was the first to 
get his company into position, forming it in front of the house, 
where the force of the attack seemed to be directed. A rail 
fence separated the house from the road, and it was along this 
fence, on the inside, that the companies took position. 

Company A, led by Lieutenant Frank Calais, formed on 
Captain Emery's left, with Company C, led by Lieutenant Richard 
Taylor, on the left of Company A, all facing the road and inside 
the enclosure. 

The companies took position in much less time than it takes 
to tell it, and in the face of a withering fire from the enemy, 
who, in the darkness, could only be seen by the flash of their 
guns as they advanced to the attack. 

' Many of the hiorsies having been tied to the fence, were 
directly in the line of fine, consequently quite a number of them 
were killed and wounded, and those wounded, breaking loose, 
plunged around among the men, threatening to do about as 
much damage as the enemy, when, by order of Major Chapin, 
t'hey were shot down, the men using them as breast works. 

The enemy pressed forward and weire only checked on reach- 
ing the fence. The rebel officers could be heard above the din 
and clash of arms, shouting, "Charge the fence," but there was 
a wall of fire along that fence that they could not breast. One 
big fellow did, however, mount the fence only to fall over on 
the inside among our men, shot through the breast. 

An incident occurred in this connection that will serve to 
illustrate the desperate character of the fighting and the utter 
disregard of danger displayed by all engaged in it. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 85 

One of the colored soldiers firing through the fence became 
aware that some one on the other side was pulling at his gun 
while he was reloading it; the gun was a breech-loading ci'-b-ne, 
and quickly loaded. Discharging it, the fellow on the other side 
of the fence got, not the gun, but its contents full in the breast. 

In speaking of the affair afterward, the black soldier said, 
"Dat was all right, de neb done koch ole de wrong end uv die 
gun." 

This colored soldier, Henry Wilson by name, was a member 
of Company B. He went North after the war, acquired an 
education, studied law, and is now a member of the Chicago bar. 

For a time it seemed that the black troopers and their white 
officers must be overwhelmed by sheer force of numbers. They 
were fighting against fearful odds — five to one, and their ranks 
were growing fearfully thinner ever minute, forty or more 
having already ibeen put out of the fight, killed and wounded, 
but knowing what fate awaited them if defeated, they fought 
on, determined rather to die fighting with arms in their tends. 

At this critical period Lieutenant Calais moved his company 
to the left, crossed the road into the woods, and fell on the 
enemies' flank with such dash and spirit, firing and yelling, that 
the enemy broke in disorder, at which the other companies 
charged across the road in pursuit, literally setting the woods 
ablaze with the flash of their carbines and the vehemence of 
their yells. 

The old maxim that "It's darkest just before day," was 
never more happily illustrated than in this instance. 

The darkest period in the history of the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry was on the morning of that eventful 13th of Decem- 
ber, 1863. 

Had they suffered defeat on that occasion the morale of the 
regiment would have been destroyed and its subsequent history 
not worth writing. 

And the darkest moment of that desperate struggle was just 
before the eastern horizon flashed her welcome light over the 
scene, revealing the enemy in disordered retreat. 

In the stirring scenes just narrated we have lost sight for a 
moment of the brave Fourth Illinois Calvary-men. Alas, they 
were put out of the fight almost in the first round, that is, many 



86 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

•of them were, but later on they struck the enemy a crushing 
blow. As previously stated, the Fourth Illinois Cavalry detach- 
ment was camped at the gin-house, some 200 yards from where 
the colored soldiers camped. It was this detachment that re- 
ceived the first shock of the attack, giving the black troopers a 
few seconds' warning, otherwise the history of this affair would 
perhaps, record different results. 

There was no better cavalry than the Fourth Illinois in the 
whole Union army. They were veterans of two years' cam- 
paigning, and had been tested on many hard fought fields. They 
led the advance of General Grant's army from Cairo to Fort 
Donelson, from Fort Donelson to Shiloh, from Shiloh to Corinth, 
from Corinth to Memphis, and from Memphis to Vicksburg. 
They had fought and won victories over the South's best cavalry. 
They had crossed sabres with the cavalrymen of Forrest, of 
Chalmers, of Wirt Adams, and of Cholson. Their ranks had 
been thinned by death on the firing line until the remnant of 
the heroic souls left seemed to bear a charmed life. But in the 
Boeuf River affair, assailed by a stealthy foe creeping upon them 
in the dark, they were taken at a great disadvantage and shot 
down betore they could make resistance. Standing in the full 
glare of their camp fires, secure in the confidence that their com- 
rades on the picket post, ever watchful, would give timely 
warning of the approach of an enemy, they presented a good 
mark for an ambushed foe, and were utterly at the mercy of 
the attacking party, who spared them not. 

This detachment suffered severely, quite a number being 
wounded, and thirteen taken prisoners. 

As the enemy retreated hack into the woods from whence 
they came, it being sufficiently light to distinguish objects, Lieu- 
tenant Main, rallying his detachment of the Fourth Illinois 
Cavalry, mounted them and started in pursuit with a view of 
heading the enemy off. Galloping up the road about a mile, 
where finding 'a road leading through' the woods toward the river, 
he followed it until it brought him out at the ferry, where alas ! 
the enemy had effected a crossing, being in the act of landing 
on the other side of the river. They were within easy carbine 
range, but our men dare not fire on them, as the prisoners — 
thirteen of their comrades, were kept in the foreground as a 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 87 

shield to the enemy, but the brave fellows waved adieus and 
gave a cheer for the Fourth Cavalry and the hag. These men 
were taken to Shreveport, La., where they were confined in the 
rebel prison for some time, and from which some of them were 
paroled and others made their escape, all finally making thleir 
way back to Vicksburg on foot, swimming rivers and undergoing 
many hardships and privations. 

Thus was fought and won the first severe engagement the 
regiment took part in, and, too, under the most adverse cir- 
cumstances. 

The success achieved in this engagement gave the black 
troopers a confidence in themselves that made them almost in- 
vincible. In this as in all subsequent engagements they faced 
the alternative of victory or death. 

In this engagement every officer and man did his full duty. 
Where all displayed the qualities of a hero there is no room 
for individual mention. The victory in itself proves the spirit 
and courage of the command, and in it is glory and praise far 
above empty words to express. 

The casualties in this engagement were five commissioned 
officers wounded, viz. : Capt. Jesse Brainard, Lieutenant Richard 
Taylor, Marshall Moon, Oscar Randall, and Leland Hall, all 
of them seriously. Seven enlisted men killed, 28 enlisted men 
wounded, and 13 enlisted men taken prisoners, the latter being 
all members of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry detachment. 

Total loss in killed, wounded and prisoners 53, or one-fourth' 
of the entire command. Lieutenants Moon and Randall never 
fully recovered from the effects of their wounds, and subse- 
quently resigned their commissions and returned to their homes 
in Illinois, where they died. 

Having no surgeon with the command, and none being pro- 
curable in that neighborhood, it was highly necessary to move 
the wounded men back to camp with as little delay as possible, 
therefore Mr. Merri weather's ox team and wagon was pressed 
into service for this purpose. Two large feather beds were taken 
from Mr. Merriweather's bouse and placed in the wagon, on 
which Lieutenants Moon and Randall were made as comfortable 
as possible, they being the most seriously wounded. 

The other wounded officers and men were able, with some as- 
sistance, to ride their horses, though suffering intensely. 



88 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

While these preparations were going on, the dead were 
buried, except those of the enemy, who were left where they 
fell, to be cared for by their friends. 

Everything being in readiness, the command left the scene 
of its late sanguinary conflict. The ownier of the plantation, Mr. 
Merriweather, was a typical Arkansas "Moss Back." He was 
the only white person on the place, living there alone with his 
niggers. That he was of the ultra pro-slavery class and a rabid 
secessionist goes without saying. Whether be had any previous 
knowledge of the attack, or abetted in it, we had no knowledge 
at that time, but in after years the truth came out that he found 
means of apprising the rebel commander of our presence on his 
plantation. As the command marched away from the scene of 
the fight, Mr. Merriweather was left standing on the porch) of 
his house, looking the picture of distress. His houses were nearly 
demolished, riddled with bullets, fences torn down and the yard 
strewn with dead men and horses. 

Truly here was General Sherman's definition of war, "War 
is Hell.'' 

From a peaceful, quiet country home, this place was trans- 
formed in a twinkling into a scene of blood and carnage. 

After proceeding about ten miles, Lieutenant Moon suffered 
so much from the jolt of the wagon, that he begged to be left 
at some farm-ihouse,saying that he had rather take his chances 
in the enemy's country among strangers (than suffer such torture. 
It was therefore with regnet and many misgivings that finally 
be was left at a wayside house, the people seeming kindly dis- 
posed and promising to take good care of him. They were 
promised adequate reward if, on the officer being sent for, it 
was found that they bad been faithful to the trust. 

It was also intimated that retribution would be swift and sure 
should harm come to the wounded officer through any lack of 
care on their part. 

One of the colored servants was left with Lieutenant Moon 
to take care of him, and to insure their safety, four citizens 
were taken and held as hostages. Lieutenant Moon was as brave 
a soldier as ever drew a sabre, and was highly esteemed and 
loved by all who knew him. Hie was formerly a Sergeant in 
Company B, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. This was the second time 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 89 

be had been left, wounded, in the enemies' country, having' been 
shot in the breast both times, first in the right, and this time 
in the left breast. In this instance he was well cared for, the 
people with whom he was left, did everything in their power 
for his comfort and protection, even procuring a doctor to dress 
his wounds. He recovered sufficiently in a few days to be re- 
moved, when an escort was sent to bring him into camp. 

On reaching Bayou Mason, some difficulty was encountered 
in effecting a crossing, and it was found necessary to take some 
of the wounded men across in pirogue, or dug-outs, as the ford 
presented too many dangers to safely trust the wounded men 
in the ox wagon or on their 'horses. The crossing was, how- 
ever, effected without mishap. 

On account of the wounded men, the command camped early 
in the evening, a few miles from the west bank of the Mississippi 
river. 

On the morning of the 14th, the command resumed the march. 
Colonel Osband h'aving been notified by courier, met the com- 
mand on the west side of the river, bringing surgeons and rations. 
Here the troops were embarked on a steamer, and were soon 
back in their camp at Skipwith's Landing. 



COLONEL OSBAND S REPORT. 

The following is Colonel Osband's official report of the fight 
at Boeuf River, Arkansas, December 13, 1863. 

HEADQUARTERS OF THE POST. 

Skipwith's Landing, Miss., December 14, 1863. 

Colonel — I have the honor to report that on the 10th instant, 
I sent seventy-five men of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry and 12? 
men of the First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. under the command 
of Miajor Chapin, First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. across the 
Mississippi river to make a scout toward Lake Village and en- 
deavor to capture some forty rebel cavalry who were hanging 
negroes and driving off stock. 

The scout proceeded to Merriweather's Ferry on Boeuf 



90 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

river, and camped half a mile from the ferry, the First Mississippi 
Cavalry, A. D. at the house and the Fourth Illinois Cavalry 
at the cotton-gin, 150 yards distant, both house and gin being 
surrounded with swampy land covered with water. 

Although no force was known to be in the vicinity, each 
road was picketed with ten men, and also a camp guard of ten 
men. 

At 3 a. m. the picket was ordered to mount by Major Chapin 
and camp called. At 5 a. m. in the midst of most intense 
darkness (the men having breakfasted, saddled, and only waiting 
for daylight to march) the rebels, 140 strong, under Captain 
Adams, of Caper's battalion, on foot having during the night 
stolen into our lines between picket stations in the swamp and 
formed all about the cotton-gin, gave the Fourth Illinois Cavalry 
volley after volley, stampeding the horses and causing great con- 
fusion among the men, who rapidly retreated upon the house, 
where the First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. were stationed. The 
rebels then charged the house, but could not dislodge the colored 
soldiers. 

The contest here for a long time was fiercely fought, and 
ended in the entire discomfiture of the rebels. 

Intense darkness prevented pursuit, and when daylight came 
it was found the rebels, after regaining their horses, had dis- 
persed through the woods, each man running on his own account. 
Ten dead of the enemy were found, and numbers were seen 
helped upon horses, and thus carried away. 

The enemy having dispersed, no pursuit could be made, and 
the number of wounded necessitated the return to camp, which 
was reached at 10 a. m. to-day. 

Two men too severely hurt to travel were left a few miles 
from here with surgeon until sufficiently recovered to permit 
their removal. 

Horses and mules were captured, enough to cover our loss 
of stock, although the quality is not as good as our own. 

Too much credit cannot be given the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, 
who did all that men could do under the circumstances. Sur- 
prised, they fought hand to hand, and those who were taken 
prisoners were bodily carried away. 

The conduct of the First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. could 




*capt. richardj;tayl,or, 

Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 91 

not have been excelled by veterans, wounded men refusing to 
go to the rear. 

It was the first fight for most of them, but, in the language 
of Major Cook, their commanding officer, "I could have held 
them till the last man was shot." 

I inclose a rough sketch of the country, also list of our 
losses, which, owing to our men being by the side of camp- 
fires, were necessarily severe. 

I am, Colonel, respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Col. First Mississippi Cavalry, A. D. 
Command ins: Post. 



LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM T. CLARK, 

ASST. ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 17th ARMY CORPS. 

While Colonel Osband's report is correct in the main, he errs 
in some of the details, viz. : 

He places the strength of the enemy at 140, when it should 
be 500, this fact being subsequently ascertained. 

Speaking of the enemy's loss the report says, "Numbers were 
seen helped or thrown upon horses, and thus carried away," 
when the fact is the rebels had no horses with them, and the 
report itself says, "the rebels, 140 strong, under Captain Adams, 
of Caper's battalion, stole into our lines on foot." 



CAPTAIN RICHARD TAYLOR. 

Captain Taylor was born in Connington, County of Somer- 
setshire, England, September 19, 1837, coming to this country 
when quite young. He enlisted in Company "I", Fifty-fifth 
Illinois Infantry, October 7, 1861. He was with his regiment 
in the battle of Shiloh, April 6 and 7, 1862, reoeiving a painful 
wound during the first day's fighting, but refused to go to the 



92 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

rear. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant for meritorious 
conduct in action. He was with his regiment during the siege 
of Corinth, participated in the battle: of Russel House, and was 
with the army under General S'hienman in its advance and oc- 
cupation of Memphis, and with the army under General Grant 
in the campaign in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi, 
in November and December, 1862. He was with his regiment 
in General Sherman's disastrous assault on Chickasaw Bluffs, 
and in the expedition under General McClernard up the Arkansas 
river, taking part in the assault on Arkansas Post, in which 
he received a severe gun-shot wound in the hand. He was 
detailed during the siege of Vicksburg for duty in the ordnance 
department under Lieutenant John C. Neely, being charged with 
the duty of distributing ammunition to the troops investing the 
city. After the surrender of Vicksburg he was placed in charge 
of the work of collecting, assorting and storing the captured 
arms, ammunition, &c. 

He was discharged from the Fifty-fifth Illinois Infantry, 
December 1863, to accept promotion as First Lieutenant in the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, and assigned to Company 
C, was promoted to Captain, May 29, 1864, and assigned to 
Company D. In the engagement of Bouef River, December 
1863, he was conspicuous in the thickest of the fight, and was 
severely wounded. 

Captain Taylor came to the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
with the highest testimonials from the officers under whom he 
had previously served, and his career in the regiment was a 
complete fulfillment of their promises. 



CHAPTER VI. 

THE YAZOO EXPEDITION, JANUARY 31, TO MARCH 10, 1864. 

The history of the war of the rebellion furnishes no more 
heroic example of pluck and indomitable perseverance than that 
displayed by the officers and men of this expedition, which pene- 
trated hundreds of miles into the enemy's country, meeting 
and overcoming dangers and obstacles before which most men 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 93 

would quail. Assailed in front and rear, and encompassed by 
unknown perils, they boldly pushed on, the enemy being con- 
fused and astounded by the very audacity of their movements. 
History furnishes few if any such tests of courage and bulldog 
tenacity as that displayed by the officers and men of this ex- 
pedition, as shown by their heroic defense of Yazoo City on 
the 5t'h of March, 1864, as shown by the Rebellion Records, 
Vol. XXXII, Part I, Page 331, see map on following page. 

Here the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, dismounted, held the 
fort against fearful odds — eight rebel regiments and two flaming 
batteries, all hurling shot and shell upon them, the ground 
slippery with the blood of their fallen comrades, and still un- 
daunted, they met with scorn and 1 derision, the rebel general's 
insolent demand to surrender. Such men were invincible, and 
the rebel general, at the close of the day's fighting, chagrined 
and dismayed, the hill-side strewn with his dead and wounded, 
withdrew from the conflict, leaving his dead and wounded where 
they fell. 

This was a fight with some of the best troops in the con- 
federate army, the' famed Texas brigade, commanded by General 
L. S. Ross, of whom the South boasted no more gallant cavalry 
leader, and General Richardson's Tennessee brigade, the equals 
of any troops that ever faced a foe. 

THE ORGANIZATION AND PERSONNEL OE THE YAZOO EXPEDITION. 

This expedition was composed of the following troops, viz. : 
The 11th Illinois Infantry, 21 commissioned officers 
and 339 enlisted men, commanded by Major George C. McKee; 
the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, (colored), 17 commissioned 
officers and 370 enlisted men, commanded by Colonel F. E. 
Peebles; the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 20 commissioned 
officers and 300 enlisted men, commanded by Col. E. D. Osband, 
making a total force of 58 commissioned officers and 1,159 en- 
listed men. The expedition was conveyed up the Yazoo river 
by five gun-boats, commanded by Captain E. K. Owen, ! . S. 
Xavy, all under command of Colonel James H. Coates, Col. 
Eleventh Illinois Infantry. 

The expedition left Vicksburg on the 31st of January, 1864, 
on transports provided for the purpose, and proceeded up the 
Yazoo river, arriving at Haynes Bluff on the evening of Feb- 



94 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

ruary 1st. Haynes Bluff was then garrisoned in part by the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, not then fully organized. 

On the following morning, February 2d, a detachment of the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry under Major J. B. Cook, embarked 
with the expedition This detachment consisted of 25 men of Com- 
pany B, under Captain Andrew Emery, and 10 commissioned 
officers, detailed as recruiting officers, and to perform such other 
duty as they might be called upon to do. At this time the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry was not fully organized, the Second and 
Third Battalions being mere skeletons in form. The officers, 
however, had been commissioned and placed on recruiting ser- 
vice, but they could not be mustered in until the requisite num- 
ber of men had been enlisted. As this expedition seemed to 
offer a good opportunity to secure recruits to fill up the regiment, 
Major Cook asked and obtained permission to accompany it 
with a small detachment for that purpose. 

The ten officers detailed to accompany the expedition as re- 
cruiting officers, were young men who had seen two years of 
active service in their old regiments, as non-commissioned offi- 
cers, and who, in recognition of gallant services, were 1 commis- 
sioned to positions in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

On the morning of February 2d, the expedition proceeded 
on its way up the Yazoo /river, this gun-boats taking the lead. 

On the west side of this river the land is low and swampy, 
covered with a heavy growth of timber, and uninhabited. On 
the east side the ground is 'high, with occasional bluffs of con- 
siderable height, and covered with a stunted growth of trees 
and bushes. The east bank therefore offered great advantages 
for the enemy to harass the expedition. The men on the trans- 
ports were screened behind temporary barricades, as it would be 
courting death for one to expose himisel/f to the aim of the rebel 
sharp shooters who skulked in the bushes along the eastern bank. 

As the transports neared the village of Satartia, they were 
greeted b}- a fusillade of bullets fired from the bushes on the 
east 'bank. Colonel Coates' orders were to land and fight the 
enemy wherever found, and he did not purpose to allow this 
the first summons to battle to pass unnoticed, 'so he ordered the 
boats to run in at the landing place, where a detachment of the 
Eleventh Illinois, under Major McKee, and the Third U. S. 
detachment, under Major Cook, were disembarked. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 95 

The Third U. S. detachment having disembarked their 
horses, mounted and moved out to reconnoitre. In the mean- 
time the rebels had left the cover of the bushes, mounted their 
horses and assumed the defensive. Major Cook charged with 
his detachment, when the irebeis retreated, being hotly pursued 
through and beyond the village, one of them being killed and 
several wounded. 

The force here encountered numbered about sixty. As it 
was now nearly sun-down, the troops were recalled and em- 
barked. The whole fleet remained there that night. 

On the following morning, February 3d, the fleet proceeded 
on up the river, nothing worthy of note occurring until Liver- 
pool Heights was reached, where the enemy was found in large 
force, consisting of artillery and cavalry, posted in a strong 
position on the bluffs. The gun-boats were permitted to pass 
the enemies' position unmolested, but as the transports rounded 
the curve, bringing them within range of the enemies' guns, 
a terrific fire was opened upon them, which threatened to demol- 
ish the boats, but the engines were quickly reversed, and the 
boats backed down out of range. 

The gun-boats could do nothing in this fight, as their guns 
could not be elevated sufficiently to reach the rebel battery on 
the bluff. 

Colonel Coates now determined to disembark his troops, 
make a land attack and dislodge the enemy from his position 
if possible. 

The troops having been disembarked, formed in two columns, 
the Eleventh Illinois infantry, Major McKee commanding, 
formed the left wing, and the Eighth Louisiana infantry, colored, 
Colonel Peebles commanding, formed the right wing, the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry detachment, Major Cook commanding, 
took the advance. 

Major Cook soon encountered the enemy's outpost, a force 
of 75 or 100 men, (cavalry) with whom he had a spirited 
skirmish, driving them back into the main force, which' was 
found to be strongly posted in the hills. 

As Major Cook drove the enemy's outpost back into the hills, 
Major McKee brought up the Eleventh Illinois Infantry on the 
double quick, followed by the Eighth Louisiana, colored, led 



96 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

by Colonel Peebles. These regiments, availing themselves of 
such protection as the nature of the ground afforded, deployed 
and advanced on the enemy's position. Major Cook dismounted 
his men, sent his horses to the rear, and led his men into the 
hills, fighting as infantry. 

The rebels were also dismounted, having left their horses 
in a place of safety, they had also strengthened their position, 
naturally strong, by hastily constructing barricades of logs, 
large rocks, etc. In addition they had several cannon, light 
field pieces, which they were able to use with deadly effect. 

As our two infantry regiments approached the enemy's 
position, they met a terrific fire, against wnich t)hey were unable 
to make headway, when Major McKee, leading a portion of his 
regiment, made a gallant dash to flank the rebel position, but 
in the face of greatly superior numbers, the artillery fire and 
the. broken condition of the ground, he was compelled to fall 
back, sustaining some loss in killed and wounded. The enemy 
fougtit on the defensive, refusing to come out in the open, but 
at times our men pressed them so closely that their position was 
rendered extremely uncomfortable. The fight was thus kept 
up until the sun dropped below the tree-tops, neither side gaining 
any decided advantage, when a summons to retire was received 
from Colonel Coates, and the command returned to the boats. 

It being evident that our small force, unaided by artillery, 
could not dislodge the enemy from his strong position, the 
troops were embarked and the' transports crossed to the west side 
of the river, where they tied up for the night. 

From prisoners captured in the fight that day it was ascer- 
tained that the force we had engaged was the Sixth and Ninth 
Texas regiments, commanded respectively by Colonels Wharton 
and Berry, and belonging to General Ross' brigade, and that the 
remainder of this brigade, the First and Third Texas regiments, 
commanded respectively by Colonels Whitfield and Mabry, were 
then in that vicinity, with General Ross at their head. It was 
safe therefore to conclude that General Ross would be on the 
scene the next morning with the balance of his brigade to oppose 
the advance of the expedition, which proved only too true. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 97 

COLONEL COATES SENDS DISPATCHES TO VICKSBURG. 

Sergeants Vincent and Trendall, Company B, 3d U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, slip through the eniemys lines in the night 
and carry a message to General McArthtnr, at Vicksburg, a ride 
of 60 miles. 

About 10 o'clock, that night, February 3d, while the fleet 
was tied up on the west side of the river, Colonel Coates sent 
for Major Cook and requested him to select two of his most 
trusty men, who would be willing to undertake the dangerous 
mission of carrying dispatches back to Vicksburg. 

This mission was a very hazardous one, and would require 
men of tact, discretion and nerve, also possessing a thorough 
knowledge of the country. 

Travel was impracticable on the west side of the river, on 
account of intersecting rivers and impassable swamps, therefore 
the messengers would have to make their way to Vicksburg 
on the east side, which swarmed with rebel cavalry, and whose 
pickets and patrols guarded every avenue of communication. 

For this duty, Major Cook, after consulting Captain Emery, 
selected Washington Vincent and Isaac Trendall, both of whom 
were sergeants in Captain Emery's company. The nature of 
the duty and the dangers attending it, being fully explained to 
them, they readily accepted it. 

Both of these men were mulattoes, young, brave and quick 
witted, and were raised on plantations in that vicinity ; they knew 
the country well over which they would travel to reach Vicksburg. 

Everything being in readiness for their departure, one of the 
Steamer's small boats was lowered, in which the two men were 
quietly rowed across the river, where they were landed in the 
shadow of some over-hanging trees, from which point they 
disappeared in the darkness, left to act for themselves — thrown 
on their own resources. It must not be supposed, however, 
that these men undertook this dangerous mission in the Uniform 
of Union soldiers. No, they wore the garb of plantation darkies, 
and sewed under one of the numerous patches on the baggy 
trousers of each were duplicate copies of the message to General 
McArtbur. 

They remained quiet where the boat left them until satisfied 
that the movement had not been noticed by the rebel pickets, 



98 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

then they crept cautiously up the bank, reaching a position behind 
some bushes near the road, which ran parallel with the river. 
They could hear the rebel pickets as they rode back and forth. 
The road was closely guarded by a chain of mounted pickets. 
They would have to cross this road to gain the open country 
beyond, and here they encountered their greatest difficulty in 
evading the rebel guards. Finding that their present position 
presented no chance to run the guard, they left it, going farther 
down the river, where they hoped the guards would be farther 
apart and less vigilant. Moving stealthily along in the dark, 
keeping in the deep shadow of the trees, they stumbled into a 
deep ditch or ravine, which they followed, crawling on their 
hands and knees, until it brought them to a culvert passing 
under the road ; creeping through this culvert with some diffi- 
culty, they emerged on the other side of the road, where the 
tall grass and weeds completely screened them from view. 

From this safe retreat they could make out the dim outlines 
of the mounted picket, standing within twenty feet of the place 
where they had passed through the culvert. From this point 
they made their way into the open country, crossing ditches and 
fences, where horsemen could not follow. 

Feeling now comparatively safe from immediate detection, 
they boldly struck out for the nearest plantation, their object 
being to procure mounts — horses or mules, on which to continue 
the journey. 

A glimmering light in the distance seemed to beckon them 
on, following it, they soon found themselves in close proximity 
to the plantation buildings. 

Carefully reconnoirering the premises, they discovered four 
fine horses, bridled and saddled, tied to the fence in front of 
the house. On closer inspection, the owners of these horses — 
four rebel soldiers — as revealed through the window, were being 
entertained by the inmates of the house. 

After making this discovery, Vincent and Trendall quietly 
approached the horses, untied and led them some distance from 
the house out of hearing, then mounted, rode away each 
leading one horse, thus leaving the rebel soldiers no means of 
pursuit. 

Some faint idea may be formed of the surprise and wrath 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 99 

of the rebel troopers at the rnysterous disappearance of their 
horses, but augmented by the exasperating thought of being 
left afoot amies from camp, the most vivid imagination will 
fail to comprehend the situation. It may be presumed, however, 
•that the next time they left their horses "to go in and see the 
girls," they exercised more caution. But what was their loss 
was Uncle -Sam's gain, for the horses were turned over to the 
regimental quartermaster and branded with the letters U. S. 
thus transferring their services to the cause of the Union. 

In recognition of the great service these horses rendered 
on the night they changed owners, they were assigned to special 
duty at headquarters, and two of them, surviving the war, were 
honorably mustered out with the regiment, and returned to the 
pursuits of civil life. 

It is hoped that their later days were passed in peace and 
contentment, browsing the herbage of their native heath. 

Finding themselves well .mounted, the captured horses proving 
fine animals, the two. couriers made good progress, and by 
changing their saddles occasionally to the led horses, they main- 
tained a high rate of speed, and by avoiding the main traveled 
roads, taking byways, and making short cuts through planta- 
tions, they evaded the rebel pickets and patrols, and reached 
Vicksburg in safety. 

They delivered the message to General McArthur, receiving 
a receipt therefor. The 'receipt showed that the message was 
delivered at 8:35 a. m., February 4, 1864. The record shows 
that they traveled sixty miles in 10 hours including the distance 
traveled on foot and the delays in getting through the enemies' 
lines. After a short rest and refreshments, they proceeded' to 
Haynes Bluff, headquarters of the regiment, and reported 1 to 
Colonel Osband. 

Subsequently, February 10th, they rejoined their company 
at Yazoo City, going up the river with Colonel Osband and the 
balance of the regiment. 



t 



100 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

RUNNING THE BLOCKADE. 

Pandemonium on the Yaaoo. 

Returning to the fleet, which we left tied up for the night 
on the west side of the river, a short distance below Liverpool 
Heights, waiting for what the morrow might bring forth, as 
every one expected hard fighting on that day. 

The morning of February 4th, dawned calm and clear, in 
striking contrast to the storm that was soon to break. 

The soldiers on the transports, in obedience to an early call, 
were preparing their morning meal and looking to their guns 
and ammunition long before the sun gilded the tree -tops. Colonel 
Coates had decided to run the blockade — pass the rebel position 
on Liverpool Heights, and preparations were being made for 
the dash. Temporary barricades were formed on the transports, 
using for that purpose such material, wood, boxes of hardtack, 
knapsack, etc., as were at hand on the boats. 

When everything was ready, the boats; under full pressure 
of 'steam, the fleet swung out into the stream, the gun-boats 
taking the lead. 

When abreast of the bluffs, where the fight of the previous 
day took place, the enemy, after permitting the gun-boats to 
pass unmolested, opened a terrific fire with artillery and small 
arms, concentrating their fire on the transports, demolishing 
the wood-work on the upper decks, and scattering .death and 
destruction on every side. The fire 1 was promptly returned by 
the troops on the transports, but they were placed at a great 
disadvantage. The rebels on the bluffs could not be seen, they 
fined from behind trees, rocks, and from wherever they could 
find cover, but the storm of bullets from the transports found 
every nook and cranny along the face of the bluffs, many of 
them finding lodgment in the anatomy of an enemy. 

When the battle opened, the gun-boats returned and added 
the roar of their guns to the conflict. The battle was now on in 
earnest. 

It was like pandemonium turned loose. The scene was ex- 
citing and awe-inspiring to the highest degree. The booming 
of cannon and the crash of small arms, the defiant yells of the 
combatants, echoed back from the silent depths of the uninhab- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 101 

ited swamp on the west side of the river, the shrill whistles and 
labored breathing of the steamers as their huge paddle-wlnedls 
lashed the murky waters of the Yazoo into a foaming torrent, 
the flaming bluffs, volcanic-like, vomiting forth sheets of fire, 
•enveloped the whole scene in a pall of black smoke, shutting 
out the light of day as though to screen from the christian 
world the sight -of such wiild orgies, wherein it seemed that all 
the devils in his Satanic majesty's kingdom wene holding high 
carnival. The place itself was in keeping with the scene be- 
ing remote from the habitation of man ; the silent swamp 
and the uninhabited bills, between which flowed the dark waters 
of the Yazoo, were the only witnessess to this drama of war. 

The brave pilots, upon whose skill and nerve so much de- 
pended, stood unflinchingly at their posts, though bullets and 
splinters flew thickly around them. 

As anticipated, General Ross had, during the previous night, 
concentrated his entire force on the bluffs, in expectation of 
another iand attack ; he had also prepared to oppose with all 
his might the further advance of the expedition, both by land 
and water. 

The transports were probably eight or ten minutes under 
fire, but the men on the boats thought it an age. When be- 
yond range of the enemy's guns the boats slackened speed, 
and an examination made of their condition. It was found, how- 
ever, that the boats had sustained no serious damage to their 
machinery or running gear. 

Two men were killed and quite a number wounded. 

The dead men were buried at Yazoo City on the arrival 
of the fleet at that place. 

In thus leaving the enemy in their rear and pushing on 
into new and unknown dangers, seemed a reckless proceeding, 
but the fearless spirit that dominated the command quailed at 
no danger 

When within five or six miles of Yazoo City, a halt was called, 
and Captain Owen, with two of bis gun-boats, proceeded on up 
the river to a point opposite Yazoo City, where hie drew the fire 
of a land battery, two of the shots taking effect on one of the 
gun-boats hut inflicted slight damage. The gun-boats returned 
the fire, but with what effect was not known. 



102 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

On re-joining- the fleet, Captain Owen reported that Yazoo City 
was occupied by a large force of the enemy, whereupon, the 
fleet moved back down the river to a point nearly opposite 
Liverpool, where it remained until the following day. 

On the 5th, 6th, and 7th, the fleet occupied different positions 
'between Liverpool and Yazoo City, watching the movements 
of the enemy, nothing worthy of interest transpiring. 

On the 8th, Major Cook and his cavalry detachment were 
landed on the west side of the river, with orders to scout the 
country along that bank to a point opposite Yazoo City. This 
force was landed about six miles below Yazoo City. 

Major Cook had proceeded but a short distance when he 
learned that a small force of rebeil cavalry had been scouting on 
that side of the river, and that they were then at the ferry, on 
their return to Yazoo City, that this force was commanded by 
Major Whitfield, of the Texas Legion. 

With the hope of intercepting them before a crossing could 
be effected, Major Cook put his troops to the gallop, and was 
soon upon the scene, too late, however, to prevent the enemy 
from crossing, the last boat load being them just in the act 
of disembarking on the other side. Four of the rebel cavalry- 
men, though, were captured, together with their horses, they 
having been left until the boat could return for them. The debark- 
ation of those on the east side was greatly accelerated by the 
long range carbines of Major Cooks' troopers, which sent 
them scurrying in every direction for shelter. 

The enemy having thus escaped him, Major Cook decided 
to cross tbe> river and continue the chase, and he called for 
volunteers to swim the river and bring back the boat, to which 
many men responded, but only two were accepted, that number 
being deemed sufficient. It is to be regrettied that the names 
of these men cannot now be recalled. Divesting themselves of 
their outside garments, the men plunged into the water, which 
was ice-cold, it being in February. As the enemy were lurking on 
the other side of the river, a rapid fire was> kept up to cover 
the move mien t. 

The men reached the boat in safety, but the rebels had de- 
stroyed the means of propelling it, they had cut the ropei, 
which had floated away. 




y.aih'iti .o D i't/.'j 




Capt. C. C. SPAIDj- 
Third U. S: C. C 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 103 

It must be explained that this ferry was simply a small 
scow or flat boat, on which not more than ten horses could 
be carried at a time, and was propelled by means of a rope 
stretched from bank to bank. 

There being no oars, the men procured some pieces of 
plank with which they attempted to paddle the boat across the 
river, but in midstream they lost control of the boat in the 
swift current and were carried down the river, only being res- 
cued on reaching the fleet, six miles below, where they were 
taken off by a rescuing party sent out by one of the gun-boats. 

When rescued, the men were terribly chilled from ex- 
posure to the cold in their soaked and almost naked condition. 

Failing to effect a crossing, Major Cook returned to the 
transport with his command, taking the four prisoners and their 
horses with him. 

The horses captured on this scout were fine animals, one 
of them being a thorough-bred stallion. This reconnaissance 
developed the fact that the rebels had evacuated Yazoo City, 
and that the force encountered at the ferry, being an outpost, 
were the last to leave the city. It was evident that General 
Ross and his forces had been called away to operate elserhere. 

The next morning, February 9th, the fleet moved up the river 
and occupied Yazoo City without opposition. 

Colonel Osband arrived on the 10th, with the balance of 
the regiment, coming up the river by boat, and meeting no 
opposition, the enemy having withdrawn. 

This increased the cavalry force to about three hundred men 
and officers. Colonel Coates was so well pleased with the con- 
duct of the small detachment under Major Cook, that he asked 
that the balance of the regiment be sent to him. 

Under such leaders as Colonel Osband and Major Cook, 
ably seconded by the junior officers, all noted for their dash and 
daring, it did not take this regiment long to come to the front, 
and it was soon recognized as one of the most efficient cavalry 
regiments in the western army. 

Leaving Yazoo City on the 11th, the fleet started up the 
river, the cavalry marching over land, covering both sides of 
the river, the force being about equally divided, Colonel Osband 
commanding the force on the east side, and Major Cook that 



. 



104 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. . 

on the west side of the river. The boats regulated their speed 
to that of the cavalry, which kept a little in advance. The cavalry 
had orders not to go beyond supporting distance of the boats. 
In one instance, however, Major Cook, in taking a short cut 
where the river almost doubled in its course, got some distance 
ahead of the boats, and being in an exposed position, the advance 
gun-boat, mistaking them for the enemy, opened fire with four 
long range guns, the shot, though, went wide of the mark. 
The cavalry moved steadily on, not knowing they were the ob- 
ject fired at, but the firing continuing, the shot coming closer as 
the gunners got the range, the cavalry halted and raised a 
white flag, when the firing ceased. 

At this point a halt was called, whten the commanding of- 
ficers all met on the flag ship, and arranged a code of signals, 
whereby future mistakes of this kind would be avoided. When 
Major Cook boarded the flag ship, Captain Owen apologized to 
him for firing on his command, to which Major Cook replied, 
"O, it's all right, I knew you couldn't hit us." The captain 
taking this as a reflection on the markmanship of his gunners, 
responded with some caustic remarks more forceable than po- 
lite. 

But the matter was finally amicably settled over a glass of the 
ship's grog. 

After this somewhat exciting and interesting episode, the 
expedition resumed its onward march, nothing worthy of note 
occurring the remainder of that day and the next, but in the 
afternoon of the 13th, indications of a considerable force of the 
enemy was discovered on the east side of the river when 
Major Cook and his detachment were transferred to the east 
side to join Colonel Osband. 

Thus united, the regiment moved forward and soon en- 
countered a regiment of rebel cavalry, five hundred strong, 
commanded by Colonel A. H. Forrest, a brother of the no- 
torious rebel general of that name. Here a sharp fight took 
place. It was a fight between colored troops and a portion of 
the command that gave no quarter at Fort Pillow. 

The officers who led the squadrons of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, had, while in their former regiments, fought 
Forrest's cavalry on many hotly contested fields, and they knew 



I L S. Coloi ■■' i , ; .:. ■.. 105 

his tactics. The fight was fast and furious from start to finish. 

Though the black troopers were greatly outnumbered, but 
their superior discipline and skill of their officers, overmatched 
their opponents, who soon found themselves ouitmaneuvened, 
flanked, and their formation broken. 

Quick to take advantage of the openings left by their less 
skilled opponents, the officers of the black troopers hurled their 
squadrons upon them with a force that could not be resisted. 
Several spirited charges were made on 'both sides, the most 
gallant, perhaps, was that led by Lieutenant James S. Matthews, 
of company A, 3rd U. S. 

When he shook out his blankets that night, which he carried 
in a roll on his saddle, he found that several bullets had 
passed through them, one bullet having lodged therein, which he 
keeps as a souvenir of the war. 

In this engagement the regiment suffered a loss of five en- 
listed men killed and ten wounded, also quite a number of horses 
killed and wounded. 

The enemy's loss must have been heavy, both in killed and 
wounded, besides a loss of fifteen taken prisoners, and with- 
al they were badly shaken up. 

The cavalry embarked at this point, and the fleet continued 
on up the river, arriving at Greenwood the 14th, where the 
whole command disembarked and went into camp. This was the 
objective point of the expedition. 

Greenwood it situated near the headwater of the Yazoo, 
two hundred miles from its mouth. 

The Yazoo is formed by the union of the Tallahatchie 
and Yallabusha rivers, and it traverses one of the most fertile re- 
gions of Mississippi, devoted almost exclusively to the raising 
of cotton. 

On disembarking, at Greenwood, the command was wel- 
comed hy Colonel Greenwood LeFlore, the old chief of the 
Choctaw's, who owned an extensive plantation near the town, 
also a large number of slaves. The town was named in honor 
of the old chief, who, when his tribe was moved to the Indian 
Territory, elected to remain in his old home, which was en- 
deared to him by so many associations, so he resigned the chief- 
tancy of his tribe. The old chief had remained true to the Union. 



106 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

He had fought with General Jackson, "Old Hickory," in the 
Florida war, and had imbibed a great love for the Union and 
the flag. He had preserved a small American flag, keeping 
it concealed in his house, and when the toops landed, he met 
them, waving the flag, and raising his hands, exclaimed, "Thank 
God, I have lived to see the old flag again carried by United 
States soldiers. Take of my supplies what you will. I give 
freely. My negroes, too, shall fight for the Union." x\nd so 
they did. After that the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry had many 
men on its rolls, who bore the old chief's name. Colonel 
LeFlore, for such the old chief was called by the people far 
and near, entertained the officers of the command at his palatial 
residence, setting before them the best of everything his house 
afforded. 

He told the officers that he had promised General Jackson 
that he would always remain loyal to the government of the 
United States, and that he had kept his promise, nowihsanding 
the threats and persecutions of the ultra secessionists. 



A RECONNAISSANCE. 

An attempt to open communication with the forces under 
General Smith. 

At daylight on the morning of the 16th, Colonel Osband, with 
the effective force of the regiment, 250 men and officers, by di- 
rection of Colonel Coates, left camp to make a reconnaissance 
in the direction of Grenada, in fact to proceed to that place if 
found practicable to do so ; the Object 'being to open communica- 
tion with the cavalry forces of General William Sooy Smith, who 
was to have left Memphis on February 1st, and whose line of 
march, it was thought, would be through' or near Grenada, which 
place was about 35 miles northeast of Greenwood. 

It was necessary to move with great caution, as it was known 
that the rebel cavalry under General Forrest, were concentrating 
to give battle to General Smith. Therefore Major Cook, with 
two companies, was assigned to the advance. 

Nothing occurred to interrupt the march until some time in 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 107 

the afternoon, when, as Major Cook's advance struck the main 
road leading into Grenada, and some five or six miles from that 
place, a regiment of rebel cavalry was encountered. It being in 
the woods, the two commands came face to face before either 
knew of the other's presence, neither could they judge of their 
relative strength. The rebels were marching in a loose, careless 
manner, evidently not suspecting the presence of an enemy, con- 
sequently they were not prepared for the reception they re- 
ceived, while on the contrary, Major Cook had his men under 
ready control, and was able to commence hostilities on the in- 
stant, by well directed volleys. 

When saddles are being emptied, men throwing up their arms 
and falling, the best of disciplined troops will waver. Colonel 
Osband coming to the front with the balance of the regiment, 
the squadrons deploring to the right and left, firing as they ad- 
vanced, the enemy was thrown into hopeless confusion, and 
retired from the field, going in the direction of Grenada. They 
wiere pursued about a mile, when, it being ascertained that Gen- 
eral Forrest was then in Grenada with his entire command, 6,000 
or 7,000 strong it was deemed unadvisable to proceed further. 
So making a rightabout face, the command returned to Green- 
wood, reaching that place at 2 :30 o'clock the next morning. 

It transpired that the force encountered was one of the reg- 
iments of General Forrest's command, and were then on their way 
to join the main command then at Grenada; that General Forrest 
was concentrating his cavalry at that place, preparatory to inter- 
cepting the force under General Smith, whom he met a few days 
later some forty miles from Grenada, where an engagement took 
place, and that General Smith, after making a feeble resis- 
tance, retreated back to Memphis. 

So what worked the ruin of General Smith, saved the Yazoo 
expedition, for had General Forrest turned from his course one 
day's march whan near Greenwood, utter annihilation would in 
all probability have been the fate of the Yazoo expedition. But 
that wily general had bigger game in view. And had General 
Smith left Memphis at the appointed time, the way then being 
open, a staggering blow would have been dealt the confederacy, 
the moral and military effect of which would have been far- 
reach in 2f in its results'. 



108 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

CAPTAIN C. C. SPAIDS. 

Captain Spaids was born in Oswego County, State of New 
York. He removed with his parents to Chicago in 1847, where 
he was educated, graduating from the first High School estab- 
lished in that city. On completing his education he traveled 
over the West, locating in the Rocky Mountain country, where 
the echo of the guns of Fort Sumter, vibrating from peak to 
peak, warmed him that the flag was in danger, and returning to 
Chicago, he enlisted in Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, 
which company was subsequently (attached to General Grant's 
headquarters as that general's body guard, and served as such 
until after the fall of Vicksburg. In this company, noted for its 
soldierly appearance and perfection in drill, be rose to the rank 
of Lieutenant. This promotion came to him by merit alone. He 
resigned his commission in the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, in the 
fall of 1863, to accept a captaincy in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, commanding company F, of that regiment until March 
1865, when failing health compelled him to quit the service, and 
resigning his commission, he returned to the pursuits of civil 
life, leaving an army record bright with brilliant deeds. For 
soldierly bearing, bravery, dash and duty well performed few 
officers equaled and none excelled the subject of this sketch. 



CHAPTER VII. 

The Expedition Returns to Yazoo City. 

During the 17 and 18th, the regiment remained in camp, it 
being the first season of rest enjoyed since leaving Haynes Bluff. 

In the meantime the transports wiere being loaded with cotton 
and forage, the latter for the horses while en transit. The cotton 
was taken from disloyal citizens ; much of it, however, was the 
property of the Confederate States Government. On the morn- 
ing of the 19th, the infantry and a part of the cavalry embarked 
and the expedition started down the river, emroute to Yazoo City. 
Major Cook, however, with 200 roan and officers of the Third U. 
S. Colored Cavalry, was ordered to proceed overland to Carroll- 
ton and thence to Blackhawk, and to rejoin the fleet at Sidon, a 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 109 

river town some 30 or 40 miles below Greenwood. Carrollton 
and Blackhawk were interior towns, the former about fifteen and 
the latter about 25 miles from Greenwood. 

Major Cook made an early start, leaving Greenwood before 
it was fairly daylight on the morning of the 19th, the fleet not 
getting under way until later in the day. Moving with his 
customary caution and dispatch, Major Cook dashed into Carroll- 
ton early in the forenoon, surprising and capturing 20 prisoners 
and as many horses. The 'men captured at this place, were strag- 
glers from Forrest's cavalry, also several officers, who were re- 
cruiting for the confederate army. 

Leaving Garrollton, the command moved 'briskly on toward 
Blackhawk. It was learned that there were a large number of 
rebel soldiers in and around Blackhawk, nearly all of whom were 
stragglers and deserters from different rebel regiments, and that 
they were well armed and mounted, and that they had organ- 
ized themselves into a sort of home guard, which also included 
many citizens. It was quite likely therefore that they would give 
battle, or what was more probable, that they would ambush the 
command at some favorable point along the road, as it seemed they 
had received notice of the approach of the scouting party. 

Lieutenant Fernald was given the advance with 25 men of 
company B, and ordered to move rapidly but cautiously, lest he 
run into an ambuscade. Much of the way was through woods, 
the ground rough and hilly, offering many advantages for an am- 
bushed foe. About 2 p. m. Lieutenant Fernald surprised a rebel 
picket of a few men, who, after firing a few shots, mounted their 
horses and fled, going towards Blackhawk. Moving forward 
to the crest of a hill, which afforded a view of the village of 
Blackhawk. Lieutenant Fernald could see that the streets were 
thronged with men and horses. Returning he reported what he 
had seen to Major Cook, at the same time requesting permission 
to charge into the town with his company, which request was 
granted, Major Cook following with the balance of the command. 
As Lieutenant Fernald and his men dashed over the crest of the 
hill, coming into view of those in the town, there was a great 
commotion among them. Some would-be leaders were making- 
frantic efforts to rally their disorganized forces, but before any 
sort of a formation could be effected, the black troopers were 



110 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

upon them, firing and yelling, and before the balance of the com- 
mand got within striking distance, Lieutenant Fernald and his men 
had them on the run. 

The result of this skirmish was six of the enemy killed, a 
number wounded, and 23 taken prisoners, also 30 horses and 
mules 'captured. 

Leaving Blackhawk, it'hie command, now pretty well encum- 
bered with prisoners and captured 'Stock, 'horses and mules, took 
up line of march toward Sidon, 15 miles distant, but night coming 
on, the command went into camp five miles from Blackhawk, 
having marched forty miles that day, engaged in it wo spirited 
skirmishes, and captured forty-three prisoners and seventy head 
of horses and mules. 

Resuming the march on the following morning, February 
20th, the command reached Sidon about 10 a. m., where the 
transports were waiting to take them on board. The embark- 
ation of the men and horses was isoon effected, when the fleet 
started down the river. The run down the river to Yazoo City 
was uneventful, but rendered slow and tedious on account of the 
many short curves in the river and overhanging trees. The 
same difficulties were experienced going up the river. 

On the way down, 'small scouting parties of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry were frequently landed to scout the country on 
the east bank. These scouting parties captured quite a number 
of horses and mules, also a few beef cattle, the latter being killed 
for the use of the troops. The expedition reached Yazoo City 
on Sunday, February 28th, about 10 a. m. The Third U. S. Gol- 
oired Cavalry, however, was landed several miles above 
the city, on the east bank, with orders to move down the 
valley, reconnoitre, and picket all the road's leading into- the city. 
In the meantime the fleet moved down to a point in front of the 
city, where the gun-boats anchored out in the stream, and the 
transports tied up at the landing place, and the infantry were 
disembarked and went into camp on the river front. Colonel 
Osband, after reconnoitiering and posting pickets as directed, re- 
turned to the city and camped his command on the river front 
a little north of the city. 




Capt. JESSK BRAINAKD, 
Third V. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. ill 

YAZOO CITY AND ITS ENVIRONMENTS. 

At the time «o£ which we write, Yazoo City was a town of 
perhaps 1,500 or 2,000 inhabitants. Situated in the beautiful val- 
ley of the Yazoo, pleasing to the eye and highly picturesque, this 
place presented many features of natural beauty. At its very 
door flowed the Yazoo, its highway of commerce. 

Before grim war disrupted the country, negular packets plied 
between Yazoo City and Vicksburg, touching at all intermediate 
points, the distance being about one hundred miles. The only 
other channel of communication with the outside world was by 
wagon road. 

At this point the valley narrowed to about a mile in width, 
gradually sloping back, on the east, to a range of high, rugged 
hills from whose summit a view of the city and valley, miles in 
extent, could be had, and overlooking, further to the east, north 
and south, a wide expanse of table land, broken here and there 
by alternate ridges and 'ravines. From this point the beholder 
could not fail to be impressed with the grandeur of the scene. 

On the nearest promontory, jutting out into the valley as 
though nature had placed it there for some special purpose, was 
a fortified position, fort or redoubt, which had been constructed 
by the confederates. This fort occupied a commanding position, 
and could be used to defend the city from a land or river attack. 
Mention is made of this fort because it was soon to become the 
scene of one of the niosi stubbornly fought battles of the war ; 
plan of fort, troops engaged, etc. is shown, on another page. 

This part of Mississippi, known as the Yazoo delta, unsur- 
passed in fertility of soil, and only equalled by the 1 famed valley of 
the Nile, was the richest cotton producing section of the South. 

This region abounded in plantations of vast area, their owners 
counting their acres by the thousands, to cultivate which required 
the labor of thousands of slaves. The owners of these planta- 
tions rarely lived on them, except perhaps for a short time dur- 
ing the hunting season, their sole care and management being left 
to overseers. 

It was here that slavery -was found in its most revolting form. 
The poor whites lived in the hill country, where they eked out a 
scanty and most miserable existence. They were, however, all 



112 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

ultra secessionists, and knew no law but that laid down by the 
slave owners, to whom they cringed and crawled with all the 
servility of serfs. 

In Yazoo City was found a motley crowd of old "mossbacks," 
types of poor white trash, too old or deorepid for service in the 
rebel army. These dilapidated specimens of humanity, poor peo- 
ple of a slave-cursed country, were lounging about or sitting on 
goods boxes in front of tavern or store, whittling, frescoing the 
sidewalk with tobacco juice and discussing "de wah." They were 
yet even loth to believe that Vicksburg had surrendered, which 
place many of them had never visited, and they had unbounded 
confidence in the invincibility of the rebel army and of the ulti- 
mate success of secession. The ignorance, stupidity and super- 
stition of these people was deplorable, and furnished the most 
convincing proof of the blighting effects of slavery. 

Yazoo City was rightly termed the "hot bed of secession." 
The rabid sentiment of the poor people Who had everything to 
gain and nothing to lose by the downfall of slavery, was pro- 
vokingly manifested on every hand. This was the first Union 
force to visit the city, which up to this time, being isolated from 
the track of the Union army, had escaped the ravages of war, but 
these people were yet to feel the heavy hand of the Federal gov- 
ernment, and to pay the penalty of their disloyalty. Subsequently 
Yazoo City 'became the scene of many cavalry raids, teaching 
the people thie bitter consequences of rebellion and war. 



A RUNNING FIGHT ON THE BENTON ROAD. 

Major Cook, with Forty Men, Stampedes a Texas Brigade. 

As previously stated, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, after 
picketing the roads leading into the city, went into camp north 
of the city, where the man were congratulating themselves on 
having a little rest, when Major Cook received orders to take a 
detachment of forty men and make a reconnaissance on the Benton 
road. Major Cook selected for this duty 'Captain Frank Cook 
of Company E, and twenty of his men, and Lieutenant S.H. 
Pettengill of Company D, and twenty of his men, making a total 
force of forty enlisted men and two commissioned officers. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 118 

Major Cook having no knowledge of the country, Colonel 
Coates furnished him with a guide, a man named Hildreth report- 
ing to him for this duty. j 

This Mr. Hildreth claimed to be a citizen of Yazoo city, and 
an ex-sheriff of that county. Hildreth told Major Cook, as they 
rode along, that he was; of northern birth, in consequence of 
which, he was looked upon with suspicion by his seciession neigh- 
bors, though he had lived there many years and had married a 
southern woman. He also stated that a number of rebel soldiers 
had stolen into the city the night before and carried off his 
brother whom they mistook for him, and that he had accepted 
the position as guide with the hope of finding and rescuing his 
brother, all of which may or may not have been true, at any rate 
there was no evidence to show he purposely led the scouting 
party into danger. 

Leaving Yazoo City, Major Cook took the road known as the 
Benton plank road, which led in an easterly direction and past 
the fort on the hill previously mentioned. All went well until 
they reached a point some five or six miles from the city, when, 
on turning a sharp bend in the road, they came unexpectedly 
upon the enemy, numbering fifty or sixty men, who 'had halted 
in the road and dismounted. The surprise seemed to be mutual. 
The officers of the black regiment, however, were never much 
surprised at anything, and were the first to act, getting in the 
first volley while the enemy were mounting, following it up by 
a charge that sent them to the right about on the double-quick, 
But a still greater surprise was in store for Major Cook and his 
men, who following up the fleeing enemy, soon found themselves 
confronted by a whole brigade of cavalry, consisting of the 1st, 
3rd, 6th and 9th Texas iregiments, fully 2,000 strong, commanded 
by General L. S. Ross in person. General Ross was a cavalry 
leader of wide experience, undoubted courage and recognized 
ability. This brigade was the pride and boast of the confederate 
army. It transpired that Major Cook bad first struck the ad- 
vance guard of this brigade, which was moving to occupy Yazoo 
city, not knowing that the Union forces were already there, but, 
on the contrary, believing that they were far away up the Yazoo 
river, henoe their lax manner of marching, resulting in the sur- 
prise and confusion into which they ted been thrown by the 
charge of the black troopers. 



114 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

As the black troopers rushed 'the rebel advance back, 
cloud of dust raised by the clatter of so many horses, prever -2 
the main force of the enemy from forming any kind of an 
mate of the numbers of their assailants, and they were undeci" 
whether to fight or run away. 

It was said that, at the time the collision occurred, General 
Ross was seated on the ground by the road-side, examining a 
map showing the topography of the country, and that his com- 
mand had come to a temporary halt, bis men being dismounted. 
At any rate, the momentary confusion into which the enemy had 
been thrown, gave Major Cook an opportunity, which he quickly 
seized, to put his men on the defensive. From the position he 
occupied, Major Cook could seie beyond the cloud of dust, show- 
ing the roads and woods full of rebel cavalry, and he instantly 
realized the dangler of his position as well as the danger that 
menaneed the command 'back in the city, unless, indeed, they 
oould be warned in time to prepare to meet it. 

The guide, Mr. Hildreth, being mounted on a fine horse, Major 
Cook dispatched him with a message to Colonel Coates, inform- 
ing that officer of the situation, and advising him to get his men 
into the fort on the hill as quickly as possible, and that he (Cook) 
would fall back, fighting, until he reached the fort, where he 
would make a stand. 

On receiving his instructions, the guide dashed away, his 
thoroughbred literally flying over the road. He was evidently 
only too glad of the 'Opportunity to get out of the fracas, and his 
speed was further accelerated by a twelve-pound shot from one 
of the enemy's guns, which tore the top out of a large oak tree 
under which he and Major Cook were standing when he re- 
ceived his instructions. The rebels were quick to get a battery 
into position on a hill to the right of the road, from Which they 
commenced to throw solid slhot and shell, getting the range on 
Major Cook's position almost from the start, and it was one of 
the first shots that struck the tree under which Major Cook 
and the guide were standing. 

At isuch times, events occur with lightning-like rapidity, and 
the officer with quick perception, cool head, and prompt to act, 
rises equal to the occasion. The rebels soon recovered from their 
temporary confusion, and presented a battle front that showed 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 115 

the skill and experience of their commander. Flanking parties 
and skirmish lines quickly moved out, and soon the rattle of 
musketry and the boom of cannon awoke the echoes of the sur- 
. rounding hills. In the meantime Major Cook withdrew his men 
to a point out of range of the enemy's battery, where he divided 
his force into two squads of twenty men each, under Captain 
Cook and Lieutenant Pettengill, respectively, with instructions to 
make a stand at every available point, deliver their fine and fall 
back alternatively. Thus a firing line was constantly facing the 
enemy, who receiving a volley every few minutes from some un- 
erpected quarter, were held in check. The country was favorable 
for this sort of warfare, being hilly, broken by deep ravines, and 
covered by a scrubby growth of trees. After making several 
reckless charges, exposing themselves to the well directed fire 
of the black troopers, they exercised more caution. 

Had General Ross known that his famous brigade was being 
held at bay by a mere squad of "nigger" cavalry, he would un- 
doubtedly have felt cheap. A spirited dash at any time, well 
supported, would have utterly crushed the little squad opposing 
him. But such are the chances of war. Few commanders nave 
the hardihood to rush their men into unknown dangers. To the 
black troopers and their white officers, capture meant death, and 
as the Texans were known to take no "nigger" prisoners, the 
black soldiers had to face the alternative, victory or death, for 
had it come to a rout they would have been run down and killed 
without mercy. As it was, however, five of the black troopers, 
having their horses shot under them, fell into the hands of the 
enemy and were murdered. , 

At almost every stand they made, one or more of the black 
toopers went down before the fire of the enemy, but before their 
deadly aim many of their opponents also fell. Saddles were 
emptied and the riderless horses, foam-flecked and frenzied, 
dashed hither and thither between the contending forces. The 
enemy pressed on, coming closer and closer, when the black 
troopers, with their ranks thinned, their carbine ammunition er- 
nausted, had recourse to their big army revolvers, which, in point 
of range, were about equal to the rebel shot-guns. At this crit- 
ical juncture Captain Cook was shot, receiving a charge of buck- 
shot in his hip, at close range, which soon filled his boot with 



116 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

blood, and though faint from loss of blood, he kept his saddle 
and said nothing. Fortunately, however, Major Cook discov- 
ered his condition and ordered him to the near, fearing he might 
faint from loss of blood and fall into the hands of the enemy. 

Thus the retreat was conducted, contesting every foot of the 
ground until the fort was reached, where they dismounted and 
took position therein, sending their ihorsies back to the camp near 
the city. This fort was simply an earth embankment thrown up 
on the hill, with a deep ditch extending around on the outside. 

Almost immediately after reaching the fort, Major Cook was 
joined by Colonels Coates and Osband, the former with) the 
Eleventh Illinois Infantry, and the 'latter with the balance of the 
Third U. S.' Colored Calvary, dismounted. They came up the hill 
on the double quick, starting immediately on receipt of Major 
Cook's message sent by the guide. As these troops entered the 
fort and manned the works, they yelled defiance to the foe, who 
came to a halt about eight hundred 1 yards from the fort. 

The Eleventh Illinois Infantry was the crack regiment of 
the "Sucker State," and had won fame on the bloody fields of Fort 
Doneldson, Shiloh', Vicksburg, and numerous other less impor- 
tant battles and skirmishes, in every one of which they reflected 
credit on the army and the great State from which they hailed. 
The rebels, seeing now that they were up against something, com- 
menced to maneuver for position. They took position on the ad- 
jacent hills east of the fort, keeping well under cover. One part 
of their force, however, taking position on a hill north of the 
Benton road and nearest to the fort, about 1,000 yards, be- 
coming aggressive, Lieutenant Frank Calais, with his Company 
A, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, dismounted, was ordered to 
move out and make a demonstration, with a view to develop their 
position and strength. 

Lieutenant Calais moved his company under cover of a deep 
ravine until nearly opposite the enemy's position, when, deploy- 
ing his men, he commenced the ascent of the hill, being yet 
partially screened by 'the scrubby growth of underbrush growing 
on the side of the hill. But the rebels, lying concealed in the 
brush along the crest of the hill, were alert, and soon the sharp 
crack of the union carbines denoted that the battle was on. 

As Lieutenant Calais and his men advanced, they found them- 




Capt. HOWARD COOK, 
Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 117 

selves opposed by a heavy line of skirmishers, with whom they 
had a ^siharp engagement, but night coming on, the firing ceased. 
The enemy disappeared from the hill, faded away in the gather- 
ing gloom, to go into camp for the night. 

Leaving a sufficient force to garrison the fort, the command 
returned to their camp on the river front, the men sleeping on 
their arms that night. Colonel Coates held a consultation with the 
regimental commanders, Captain Owen, commanding gun-boats, 
and Major Cook were also present. The situation was dis- 
cussed at this meeting, and from all indications it seemed evident 
that the enemy were gathering in force for an attaok, and hot 
work was looked forward to. But the morrow dawned bright 
and peaceful, and the day passed, bringing no demonstration 
from the enemy. 

The troops were disposed in a manner to best meet an attack 
and to defend the city and its approaches. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry was assigned the important 
duty of 'holding the Benton road and the fort. The infantry 
was assigned the duty of guarding the Lexington road on the 
north and the Vicksburg road on the south, and mounted pickets 
were detailed from the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry for out- 
posts on all the iroads. Major Cook, with 200 men and officers 
of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, was charged with the duty 
of holding the Benton road and the fort. 

Day after day the same round went on, the enemy making 
no move, but the vigilance of the union officers never relaxed. 

The silence was ominous. 



CAPTAIN HOWARD COOK. 

The subject of this sketch was born May 23, 1844, at Pleas- 
ant Grove, Lancaster County, Penn. He enlisted in Company 
"H," Fourth Illinois Cavalry, September, 1861, in which reg- 
iment he served until April 30, 1864, being successively promoted 
to the rank of Corporal and Sergeant for meritorious conduct 
in action. Always on the active list, lie participated in all the 
battles and campaigns of this regiment, beginning at Fort Don- 
elson and Shiloh, and ending with the capture of Vicksburg. 



118 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

March 1, 1864, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant 
in the Third U. S. .Colored Cavalry, and assigned to Company 
"I"; First Lieutenant, January 23, 1865, and assigned to Com- 
pany "E," promoted to Captain of that Company, August 5, 
1865. He led ihlis company in the charge at Black River Bridge, 
November 27, 1864, where lie was conspicuous at the point of 
greatest danger. His soldierly bearing, splendid horsemanship 
and pleasing personality marked him as an ideal cavalry officer. 
His whole military career was typical of the young officers Who 
led the charging squadrons of this regiment. After the war 'he 
studied medicine, graduating at the University of Pennsylvania. 
Going wiest, he located at Edna, Kansas, where, country prac- 
tice not being congenial to him, hie moved to Trinidad, Col- 
arado, and thence to Omaha, Nebraska, where he, after years' 
of successful practice, died October 22, 1896. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

the; storm breaks. 

The Bloody Fight of March 5, 1864. 

After the fight on the Benton road, February 28, the enemy 
maintained an ominous silence, not even a picket shot broke 
the monotony. But at daylight on the morning of March 5thl, 
the storm broke in all its fury. 

During the lull from March 1st, to the morning of the 5th, 
the enemy werie largely reemforced by the arrival of General 
Richardson, with his brigade, consisting of the 14th, 15th, and 
17th. Tennessee regiments, and the 8th Louisiana, over 2,000 
strong. Thus reinforced the combined forces of Ross and 
Richardson, numbering between 4,000 and 5,000 men, formed 
a cordon around the city during the night of March 4th, and 
at daylight on the morning of March 5th, they were hurled against 
the Union 1 troops, numbering but 1,217 men and officers all told. 

The rebel lines extended from a point above the city, on the 
Lexington road on the north, thence east, around to the Vicks- 
burg road on the south.. Out on the Lexington road, 1,500 yards 
northeast of the fort on the Benton road, was a redoubt occupy- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 119 

ing a corramandiing position, which was occupied by the enemy 
•under General Richardson, where they planted a battery; on a 
hill just north of the Benton road 1 , about 1,000 yards from the 
last named fort, the enemy planted several guns, and on a hill 
south' of the Benton road 900 yards' from the fort, the enemy 
planted another battery, and still further around to the south 
were two more redoubts within easy range of the Union position. 
Within the area embraced by these commanding positions, 
scattered through the gullies and ravines, safe from the shot and 
s'hell of their own artillery, were eight rebel regiments. 

The gun-boats could render no assistance in this fight, as 
the city and the Union troops were -between them and the enemy. 
The rebels opened the fight by first advancing on the Benton 
road, driving in the pickets of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 
This picket consisted of one company, "B", commanded by Cap- 
tain Emlery, and was posted one mile from the fort, on the Ben- 
ton road. The report of their carbines, volley after volley, as 
they met the attack, was the first sound to break the stillness of 
the early morning, denoting to the practiced ear that an attack 
in foroe was being made. Major Cook was at the fort, and 
hastened with a detachment of the regiment to support the picket, 
but the enemy came on with a rush that he could not check, and 
he was compelled to fall back and seek cover in the fort, first, 
however, making a stand in some rifle ipits outside the fort, but 
the enemy's artillery making that position untenable, he with- 
drew his men to the inside. Major Cook had strengthened the 
fort a few days previous by placing isome hieavy plank on the 
parapet to serve as head barricades. These planks were taken 
from the Benton roiad, and placed one upon another, leaving a 
space beneath to fire through. This barricade proved a great 
protection to the men, shielding them from the rebel sharp- 
shooters. Without this barricade Major Cook thinks the fort 
could not have held out. 

While making the change from the rifle pits toj the fort, 
Lieutenant Eugene Walker, Company C, Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, was struck and instantly killed by a piece of shell, which 
exploded just outside the sally port, and which also killed and 
wounded several of the men. At this critical moment, the enemy 



120 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

being about to storm the works, two companies of the Eleventh 
Illinois infantry, sent by Colonel Coates, lentered the fort, com- 
ing up the hill on the double quick 

These companies numbered in the aggregate about 80 men, 
and were commanded by their respective captains. This in- 
creased Major Cook's force to about 300 enlisted men, with which 
to contend against 2,500. 

The enemies batteries, from their commanding positions on 
the adjacent hills, rained shot and shell into and around the be- 
sieged fort, some of the shot bursting in the air over the fort, 
the pieces falling among the men, killing and wounding many, 
and others finding lodgment in the earth-works, or ploughing 
deep furrows in the 'earth, covering the men with dirt and debris, 
while the rebel sharpshooters, crouching in gully and ravine, 
closed in around the besieged fort, in readiness for the final rush, 
which was to carry the fort by assault. Surely the little fort and 
its brave defenders seemed doomed. It was well known that the 
Texans took no "nigger" prisoners, therefore no quarter could 
be expected. Midst such scenes the stoutest heart might well 
quail. Thus the battle raged for several hours, the enemy all 
the time taking more advanced ground, when the firing ceased, 
and a flag of truce was seen approaching the fort. Major Cook 
sprang upon the parapet, where he was hailed by Colonel Mabry 
of the Third Texas Cavalry, bearing a message from General 
Ross, demanding the immediate and unconditional surrender of 
the forces holding the fort, to which demand Major Cook made 
this reply, "My compliments to General Ross, and say to him 
that if hie wants this fort to come and take it." Colonel Mabry, 
bowing, returned to his command, and the firing was soon re- 
sumed. It may be stated here that General Ross ac- 
companied his demand for the surrender of the fort 
with threats of dire consequences in case he was com- 
pelled to take the fort by assault. The men and officers were 
witnesses to the interview between Maj. Cook and the officer bear- 
ing the white flag and they were highly delighted at the con- 
clusion. 

After the flag of truce incident, the attack was renewed with 
even more fury than before ; they pushed their lines closer and 
redoubled their fire, both with artillery and small arms. Lieu- 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 121 

tenant Archibald Steward, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, fell 
mortally wounded, dying in a few minutes, and the men were 
falling on every side, killed or wounded. At this trying moment, 
Major McKee, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, reached the fort, having 
been sent by Colonel Coates, who was much concerned for the 
safety of those in it. Major McKee reached the fort 
through a deep ravine, flanking the Ninth Texas Cav- 
alry, which regiment 'had gained a position west of 
the fort' and between it and the city, and only about 
100 yards from the fort. In reaching the fort Major McKee 
was often exposed to the fire of the enemy and that he was not 
shot was truly providential. Maj. McKee ranked Maj. Cook 
by seniority of commission, and he at once assumed command. 
It being feared that the 9th Texas, which had secured a strong 
position west of the fort, and quite close to it, might attempt a 
charge across the intervening space, Major McKee ordered com- 
panies A, and B, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, to take position 
outside the fort, in a deep 'ditch on the west side, bringing them 
face to face with the 9th Texas. These companies were com- 
manded 'by Captain Emery and Lieutenant Calais, respectively. 
Major McKee accompanied these companies and remained with 
them, -directing their movements. The enemy now farmed a com- 
plete circle around the fort, ranging from 100 to 200 yards dis- 
tant. They made repeated charges to carry the works by assault, 
but were as often beaten back, leaving the hill-side strewn with 
their dead and wounded. At intervals the enemy would cease firing 
and send out a flag of truce, demanding the surrender of the fort ; 
see correspondence between Major McKee and General Ross. 

The troops in the city, under Colonels Coates and Peebles, 
were savagely attacked by the forces of General Richardson, 
who entered the city from the north, on the Lexington road, and 
availing themselves of the protection of the buildings, fought 
their way from house to house until they reached a point near the 
river, where Colonel Coates had caused to be constructed a 'hast- 
ily improvised barricade of cotton bales, and where he had planted 
a howitzer he procured from one of the gun-boats. Here the 
enemy were brought to a stand, but they made repeated assaults, 
and the fighting became so fierce that the men in charge of the 
howitzer abandoned it and fled to the ship, but the officer of the 



122 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

deck refused to let them come aboard. Another gun-squad, how- 
ever, wasi quickly secured, who had pluck enough to stand by 
their gun. This second squad handled the gun with consummate 
skill and effectiveness throughout the remainder of the fight. 

For a long time the issue trembled in the balance, it seeming 
that the Union soldiers must be overcome by sheer force of num- 
bers, and it was only by their heroic bravery and bulldog tenacity 
that they maintained their ground. Communication between the 
Union forces in the city and those in the fort was now cut off, 
the fort being completely surrounded. The defeat of one meant 
the certain downfall of the other. Those in the city watched with 
bated breath the flag on the fort, for as long as it waved there was 
hope, and the officers commanding these respective positions, real- 
izing the fact that defeat to one meant the utter destruction of the 
whole, fought on with a sublime courage that challenges compar- 
ison. And so the fight raged, the yells of the combatants, the 
groans of the wounded and the prayers of the dying being 
drowned in the general tumult. At a moment when it seemed 
that the Union troops must yield to the great preponderance of 
numbers, one of those lucky incidents occurred that sometimes 
turn the tide of battle. It was brought about by a bold dash made 
by Lieutenants Farley and Carson of the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry. Lieutenants Farley and Carson had been sent back to 
camp early that morning by Major Cook, to gather up all the 
men left in camp, and bring them to the fort, but on their return, 
they were cut off by the forces of General Richardson then enter- 
ing the city. With the men they had gathered up, some 20 or 
30, they fought their way back to the city, losing two men, killed 
by the enemy. Reaching the city, they put themselves at the com- 
mand of Colonel Coates, doing gallant service. These officers, as 
before stated, leading .such men as> they could rally, made a bold 
dash that turned the enemy's left flank, which threw them into 
confusion. Sometimes it required but a trifle to start a panic, 
which once set in motion is as uncontrollable as a drove of Texas 
steers when stampeded. When the rebel line in the city broke, 
the 9th Texas, rebel, occupying a position Aviest of the fort, see- 
ing the stampede oi their friends, and fearing that they too would 
be cut off, also broke in disorder. This being the regiment con- 
fronting Major McKee and the two companies of the Third U. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 128 

S. Colored Cavalry, that officer sallied forth with these compan- 
ies, dashed down the hill, firing and yelling, which completed the 
rout of the 9th Texas, which degenerated into a mad scramble 
to seek shelter in gully and ravine. By these lucky and timely 
moves by the officers named, the combined forces of Ross and 
Richardson were defeated and put to flight. Thus the battle 
of Yazoo City was fought and won. The enemy was in retreat, 
leaving their dead and wounded where they fell. 

The sun was disappearing below the western horizon when the 
firing ceased. The fight had raged with unceasing fury since 
daylight that morning, and the men, powder burnt, begrimed, 
and worn out, threw themselves on the ground and slept. The 
enemy went into camp a few miles from the city, from which 
point General Richardson, carried on a correspondence with 
Colonel Coates respecting the disposition of the rebel dead and 
wounded, which together with Colonel Coates' official reports of 
the fight, are herewith attached. 

The losses of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry in the fight of 
March 5th and the skirmishes leading up to it were as follows : 

Two commissioned officers killed, and three wounded; fifteen 
enlisted men killed, and twenty wounded; total casualties, 40. 



HOMEWARD BOUND. 

On March 8th, in compliance with orders from the command- 
ing general, the troops were embarked, and proceeded down the 
river. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry was disembarked at 
Haynes Bluff, where they went into their old camp, the balance 
of the command continuing on to Vicksburg. 

During this expedition, the regiment secured many recruits, 
nearly enough to complete its organization, and captured stock 
enough, horses and mules, to mount all the men. The conduct of 
the regiment on this expedition placed it on an equal footing with 
the best cavalry in the department. 

The remains of Lieutenants Walter and Steward were brought 
back to Haynes Bluff, where they were placed in metallic cases 
and shipped to their friends in the north. In the death of these 
promising young officers, the regiment suffered an irreparable 
loss. 



124 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Unfortunately General Ross' first demand for the surrender 
of the fort on the Benton road, made 'early in the day of March 
5th, was not made in writing, being delivered verbally by Colonel 
Mabry, of the Third Texas, and which is not mentioned in Col- 
onel Coates' official report. This demand was made to Major 
Cook and before Major McKee assumed command. 



FIRST UEUTENANT EDWIN FARLEY. 

Lieutenant Farley was born in Walworth County, State of 
. Wisconsin, August 28, 1842. He enlisted in Company K., Eighth 
Wisconsin Infantry, known as the "Eagle Regiment," August 
26, 1861, being soon promoted to the rank of Corporal. He was 
with his regiment in the battle of Fredericktown, Mo., October 
1861, in the battle of Island No. 10, the battle of Farmington, 
Miss., May 8, 1862, the siege of Corinth and the battle of Iuka, 
Miss. He was taken prisoner at the last named battle and sent 
to Vicksburg, where he was held until paroled and sent to St. 
Louis, Mo., to await exchange June 1st, following, when he re- 
joined his regiment at Union City, Tenn. He was with his reg- 
iment in all its battles and campaigns, including the battle of 
Richmond, La., Jackson and Raymond, Miss., and the charge on 
the works of Vicksburg, May 22, 1863. 

He was detailed October 1863 as recruiting officer for the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry then being organized at Vicksburg. 

He was discharged from the Eighth Wisconsin Infantry De- 
cember 12, 1863 to accept promotion as Second Lieutenant in 
the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, and assigned to Company C, 
promoted to First Lieutenant January 23, 1865 for meritorious 
conduct in action, and assigned to Company B, assigned to Com- 
pany I, August 8, 1865. 

At the battle of Woodville, Miss., October 6 ; 1864, Lieuten- 
ant Farley led his company in a sabre charge, capturing Holmes' 
Louisiana Battery, three pieces. He was severely wounded while 
leading his company in a charge at the battle of Franklin, Miss., 
January 2, 1865. He was mustered out with the regiment Jan- 
uary 26, 1866. 

Resuming his place in the ranks of civil life, he continued to 




ED. FARLEY, 
1st Lieut. Third V. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 126 

maintain that sturdy devotion to the principles of truth and good 
citizenship that always finds its reward in success and the good 
will of men. 

Embarking in business in Paducah, Kentucky, soon after the 
war, he won a place among the substantial business men of that 
city, and where he has reared an interesting family. At the Ken- 
tucky State election, recently held, Lieutenant Farley wa9 hon- 
ored with the position of State Treasurer. 

In the long list of volunteer soldiers who emerged from the 
ranks by sheer force of merit alone, winning a place in that splen- 
did galaxy of the brightest types of the American volunteer sol- 
dier, the subject of this sketch furnishes a conspicuous example. 



CHAPTER IX. 



Correspondence between Brigadier General L. S. Ross, Com- 
manding Texas Brigade, and Major George C. McKee, com- 
manding Redoubt on Benton road, Yazoo City, March 5, 1864. 



(First Demand Received by Major McKee.) 

"The first demand was for the unconditional surrender of 
my intrenchments and the forces under my command. 

"The officer who brought the flag of truce (Lieutenant Rogers, 
of General Ross' staff) stated that he was also instructed to say 
to the commander of the redoubt, " that in case of having to storm 
the works, General Ross said he would be unable to restrain his 
men." I answered, "that means General Ross will murder the 
prisoners if he is successful." Lieutenant Rogers said, "No, not 
exactly tihat, but you know how it will be." I then refused to 
receive the communication and told Lieutenant Rogers to say to 
General Ross to put all of his communications into writing, for 
if he attacked me with the present understanding and was re- 
pulsed, I would kill every man that fell into my .hands." 

The above is appended to Colonel Coates' official report of 
the Yazoo expedition. (Rebellion Records, Vol. XXXVII, part 
1, pp. 327-8.) 



126 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

(Second Demand.) 

Headquarters Attacking Forces, 

Yazoo City, March 5, 1864. 
Major Commanding Redoubt, 

Benton Road: 

Major: — "An unconditional surrender of the forces holding 
the redoubt on Benton road, of Yazoo City, is demanded. 

I have no terms to offer other than you shall receive the treat- 
ment due prisoners of war. A suspension of the firing on your 
position for ten minutes will be allowed in order that your answer 
may be received." 

Respectfully, etc., 

L. S. Ross, 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 328.) Brigadier-General. 



(Answer.) 

Yazoo City, March 5,1864. 
Brigadier-Generae Ross : 

General: — "Your demand for the surrender of my forces is 
received. In answer, I can only say that I have no idea of sur- 
rendering. 

I am sorry that your threat in regard to the treatment of 
prisoners was not reduced to writing, as it certainly should have 
been." 

Respectfully, 

Geo. C. McKee, 
Major Eleventh Illinois Infantry, 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 328.) Commanding Redoubt 



(Third Demand.) 

Headquarters Forces Attacking Yazoo City. 

Yasoo City, March 5,1864. 

Major McKee: — "Your reply just received. I regret for the 
sake of humanity that you do not find it consistent with your 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 127 

feeling's of duty to your Government to surrender the redoubt, 
which I can certainly storm and take. 

As to the treatment of your men and yourself, I will try and 
have them protected if they surrender during the charge ; but you 
must expect much bloodshed. 

If you have no reply to make, we will resume operations when 
the white flag is down from both your line and mine." 
Respectfully, etc., 

L. S. Ross, 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 328.) Brigadier-General. 



(Anszver.) 

"To this demand no written reply was made. The verbal 
statement sent to General Ross by Colonel Jones, Third (Ninth) 
Texas (bearer of flag) "That General Ross was a greater phil- 
anthropist than myself, and for him to take down his flag as soon 
as he reached his lines." 

Geo. C. McKEE, 
Major Eleventh Illinois Infantry. 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 329.) 



(Inclosure No. 4.) 

Headquarters Cavalry Brigade, 
Near Yazoo City, March 6, 1864. 
Colonel Coates, 

Commanding U. S. Forces, Yazoo City, Miss. 
Colonel:— "Major James G. Thurman and Lieutenant Rainey 
and probably other officers and men of my command were killed 
yesterday in Yazoo City and not brought off the field. I send 
ambulance for the purpose of bringing to these headquarters 
their remains, which I request you to permit. 

When I captured your wounded yesterday, in all about thirty 
in one house I did not allow them to be molested, although I 



128 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

could have brought some of them away with me. I hope you 
will treat my wounded that may have fallen into your hands with 
like humanity. I have about twenty of your men as prisoners, I 
would like to exchange for any of my men you may have, and 
suggest that a commission from each side could meet between our 
picket lines for the purpose. 

If the proposition meets your approbation, you will indicate 
the time and place in reply to my officer bearing flag of truce. 

I ask that one of my surgeons be allowed to visit my wounded 
men and officers in your possession to day and dress their wounds 
if necessary. 

Captain W. E. Reneau, assistant inspector-general of my staff, 
with escort of men and ambulance train, will bear this communi- 
cation under flag of truce." 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

R. V. Richardson, 
Brigadier-General Commanding Brigade. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 329.) 



(Inclosure No. 5.) 

Headquarters U. S. Forces, 
Yazoo City, Miss., March 6, 1864. 
Brigadier-Gen. R. V. Richardson, 
Commanding Cavalry Division, 
Near Yazoo City, 

Colonel: — "Your communication this a. m. per flag of truce, 
just received and I hasten to reply. 

I would respectfully state that your dead have been decently 
interred and your wounded properly cared for, and as there can 
be no necessity for your surgeon and ambulance corps, I decline 
receiving them. 

As to the proposition of exchange, if I mistake not, a cartel 
has been agreed upon in which certain parties and places have 
been named for such exchange, and as neither General Richardson, 



Third U S. Colored. Cavalry. 129 

C. S. Army, nor Colonel Coates, U. S. Volunteers, have been 
named as the parties, nor Yazoo City the place for such 'exchange, 
I must respectfully decline your proposition. 
I am, General, 

Recpectfully, 

Jas. H. Coates, 
Colonel Commanding U. S. Forces, 

Yazoo City, Miss. 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 329.) 



Correspondence between General L. S. Ross, C S. Army, 
commanding Texas Brigade and Colonel Jas. H. Coates, U. S. 
A., commanding Yazoo River Expedition. 

Headquarters Texas Brigade, 

Jackson's Cavalry Division, 

March 4, 1864. 
Colonel Coates, 

Commanding U . S. Forces, 

Yazoo City, 

Sir: — Some few weeks ago two men belonging to the Sixth 
Regiment Texas Cavalry were captured by one Colonel Wood, 
of the U. S. Army, near Mechanicsburg, Miss., and executed, 
without trial and in cold blood. From threats made by officers 
and men of your command during their recent raids through this 
country, I am led to infer that yourself and command indorse the 
cold-bloodied and inhuman proceedings of Colonel Wood. 

My object in addressing you now is 'to know whether or not 
such is the case. What kind of treatment shall members of this 
brigade expect, should the fortunes of war make them prisoners, 
in your hands? 

W r ill they receive the treatment due prisoners of war, or be 
murdered as were the two unfortunate men above referred to ? 

Regard for the feelings of humanity and a strong desire to 
see the struggle in which we are engaged conducted as becometh 



130 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

a civilized people are the motives which have prompted the above 
inquiries. 

Up to the time of the death of the two men who were murdered 
by Colonel Wood, prisoners captured by this command were in- 
variably treated kindly and with the consideration due them as 
prisoners of war ; indeed, it is the boast of the Texans, that while 
they have always damaged the enemies of their country to the 
utmost of their ability on the battle-field and in open, fair fight, 
they have never yet injured nor in any way maltreated prisoners. 
If, however, the sad fate that ibefell the two men captured at 
Mechanicsburg awaits all who may 'hereafter be taken we are 
prepared to accept the terms, and will know what course hence- 
forth to pursue. 

I trust your answer may be satisfactory to my command, and 
that there may be no necessity for any change in the treatment 
heretofore given to prisoners. 

I am, Colonel, 

Respectfully, 

L. S. Ross, 

Brigadier-General 
C. S. Army. 

(R. R. VOL. XXXIII, PART 1, P. 326.) 



Headquarters U. S. Forces, 
Yazoo City, Miss., March 4, 1864 
Brigadier-General L. S. Ross, 
Commanding Texas Brigade, 
Jackson's Cavalry Division: 
Sir:— Your communication of date this a. m., per flag of truce, 
just received and contents noted. I would respectfully reply that 
your information relative to outrages said to have been committed 
by Colonel Wood, U. S. Volunteers, is the first intimation that I 
have received of such transaction, and beg further to assure you 
that this mode of warfare and treatment of prisoners is as sin- 
cerely deprecated 'by me as by yourself. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 131 

I desire, however, to call your attention (while speaking on 
this subject) to a fact which in all probability you have yet not 
been advised, viz, that in a skirmish with a portion of your com- 
mand on the 28th ultimo, 19 of my command (colored) were miss- 
ing; since then 6 of the number have been found, presenting 
every appearance of having been brutally used, and compelling me 
to arrive at the conclusion that they had been murdered after hav- 
ing been taken prisoners. 

I beg leave to assure you that while I am desirous of perform- 
ing all that is in my dine of duty I will not deviate from those prin- 
ciples dictated by humanity, and it will only be in extreme cases 
of premeditated provocation that I will tolerate it in any por- 
tion of my command. 

I am General, 

Respectfully, etc., 

Jas. H. Coates, 
Colonel Commanding U. S. Forces, Yazoo City. 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 327.) 



Reports of Colonel James H. Coates, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, 
commanding Yazoo Expedition. 

Headquarters U. S. Forces, Yazoo River, 
On Board Steamer Des Moines, 

February 3, 1864. 

Colonel : — I have the honor to -report that my command en- 
countered the enemy to-day in considerablie force, variously es- 
timated at from 2,300 to 2,500, under command of Brigadier- 
General Ross, and his troops were composed of Arkansas and 
Texas men and veterans in the Confederate service. 

We h'ave been following them closely and carefully for the 
past two days and this morning they opened fire upon one of our 
gun-boats with two pieces of field artillery without, however, do- 
ing any damage to the boats. 

" I at once disembarked about 250 of the Eleventh Illinois In- 
fantry, under command of Maj. George C. McKee, Eleventh 



132 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Illinois Infantry. He was not long in coming upon the enemy, and 
at once engaged him with his line of skirmishers. The hills in 
this vicinity (between Satartia and Liverpool) are almost moun- 
tainous and difficult of assault, yet our skirmishers steadily ad- 
vanced and drove 'them from their first position. They rallied, 
however, but not until I had thrown out to the right of his 
(MeKee's) line one wing of the Eighth Louisiana Infant'-y, Afri- 
can descent, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Peebles, 
Eighth Louisiana Infantry, African descent. 

I now, finding 'both detachments closely pressed, ordered the 
balance of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, consisting of about 
300 men, under command of Capt. H. C. Vore, Eleventh Illinois 
Infantry, to their support, throwing the latter as a reserve and 
in the rear of about the center of the line of skirmishers. 

The enemy now opened briskly with two pieces of artillery 
(apparently 12 pounders) aiso infantry fire. He. at this time 
attempted to flank us on our right, but I met his movements by 
ordering out the balance of my force, the remaining battalion of 
the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, under command of Captain Wil- 
son, Eighth Louisiana Infantry, African descent. Major McKee 
at this time gallantly charged their line and was repulsed with a 
loss of two killed and 5 wounded. 

The enemy then charged on that part of the line com- 
manded by Capt. H. C. Vore, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, but was 
nobly repulsed without any loss to our side, and were fairly driven 
beyond the hill, the possession of which we were contending for. 
Both detachments of the Eighth Louisiana, African descent, nobly 
performed their part of the duty assigned them and acquitted 
themselves most handsomely, displaying the courage, coolness and 
discipline of the most experienced troops. I would respectfully 
state that I was materially assisted in the day's operation by a 
detachment of 35 men of the First Mississippi Cavalry, under 
command of Major Cook, First Mississippi Cavalry, who I took 
on board at Haynes Bluff to accompany me on the expedition for 
recruiting purposes for the benefit of that regiment, and who 
have proved of incalculable benefit to me as scouts, etc. As night 
approached I gave the signal for the detachment to fall back to 
the boats, the gun-boats covering this movement with well-directed 
shell. I am now dropping down the river, where I shall go for 



Third U S. Colored. Cavalry. 133 

about one mile, and will make another attack on the enemy at 
daylight to-morrow morning. 

I have the honor to report my available strength as follows : 
Eleventh Illinois Infantry, 560. Eighth Louisiana Infantry, 
African descent, 387. First Mississippi Cavalry, African descent, 
35. 

I have the honor also to report the casualties of the Eleventh 
Illinois Infantry killed 4, wounded 12, missing 8. Eighth Louis- 
iana Infantry, African descent, killed 2, Second Lieutenant Welch 
and 7 privates wounded (some mortally), First Mississippi Cav- 
alry, African descent, wounded, one (slightly). 
Respectfully 

Jas. H. Coates, 
Colonel llth III. Inf. and Commanding 

Land Forces, Yazoo Expedition. 
Lieutenant-Col. W. T. Clark, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 

(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 315-317. 



Headquarters U. S. Forces, 
On Board Steamer Des Moines. 
Yazoo River, Near Satartia, February 6, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to respectfully continue my re- 
port of the movements of this expedition to this date. 

On the morning of the 4th instant at 4 :30 o'clock, I left our 
landing near Satartia and proceeded without interruption up 
the Yazoo until, when opposite the bluffs where we had engaged 
the enemy the day before, the enemy opened a heavy fire upon the 
transports (having permitted the advance* gun-boats to pass un- 
molested) which was returned briskly and I think effectually by 
my men from behind hastily constructed barricades composed of 
knapsacks, boxes of hard bread, etc. The loss to our side from the 
fire is as follows, viz. : 

Steamer Des Moines, right wing, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, 
1 man wounded .severely in ankle ; Sioux City, left wing, Eleventh 
Illinois Infantry, 3 men wounded severely; Steamer J. H. Lacey, 



134 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

right wing, Eighth Louisiana Infantry, 1 man mortally wounded. 

The rear gun-boat opened with well directed shell against the 
enemy, which dispersed them before the transports could be 
landed. 

We then passed on up the river, arriving in the afternoon at 
Goosey's Mill, about 4 miles below Yazoo City, having in the 
transit stopped at several plantations and seoured about 200 bales 
of cotton, which, as received on boats, were constructed into bar- 
ricades and used for protection to boilers. 

We also secured at a deserted plantation 9 head of beef-cattle 
and 12 head of mules. At 9:30 p. m. the steamer Hastings made 
her appearance with clearances, passes, etc. from the Treasury 
Department, and is now consequently attached to our fleet. She 
had also been fired into at the same point our transports were 
(near Liverpool) and the watchman of the boat seriously wounded. 

I remained at Goosey's Mill during the day of February 
5th, and about 1 1 a. m. the steamer Emma Boyd arrived, and re- 
ported as dispatch-boat, for the gun-boat fleet. The gun-boats 
having been ordered to approach Yazoo City for the purpose of 
reconnoitering, found the enemy at that point in force ; discov- 
ered also five guns in position and one other in course of erection. 
The guns in position opened fire, two of the shots taking effect on 
one of the gun-boats. After dropping back and making more 
careful observations, they returned to their anchorage at Goosey's 
Mill. Taking as a basis the above expressed observations of 
the gun-boats and information gathered from other sources, I 
was satisfied that a much larger force was in position there than 
was anticipated and fearing they might plant a battery in my 
rear at Liverpool (the best point on the river for the erection of 
a battery) I ordered a return of the fleet to our present position, 
which we reached at an early hour this morning, not, however, 
without being fired on with musketry at Liverpool, without in 
any manner damaging us. 

I would further respectfully state that the Emma Boyd was 
oidered by the naval officer to report to Vicksburg, Miss., with 1 
dispatches, and having a messenger on board destined for General 
Sherman, I took the liberty of making to him a full report of the 
operations and prospects of the expedition. 

I have ordered that at daylight to-morrow morning (7th 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 135 

instant) two gun-boats shall proceed up the river as far as they 
can possibly reach, and in the meantime I propose sending a force 
of infantry, with such cavalry as I have, to engage the enemy at 
Liverpool, it being represented that the force there consists of 
the Sixth Texas Rangers and half of some other Texas regiment. 
Respectfully, 

Jas. H. Coates, 

Colonel Eleventh Illinois Infantry 
Commanding Land Forces, 

Yazoo River Expedition. 
LiRut. Col. W. T. Clark, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

The steamer Hastings leaves here to-morrow on business con- 
nected with the Treasury Department, and on her I send my 
wounded to Vioksburg. 

(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 317-18.) 



Headquarters U. S. Forces, 
On Steamer Des Moines. 
One Mile Below Yazoo City, February 8, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to respectfully forward report 
of proceedings of Yazoo River expedition from last report to 
present date. 

When last reporting I occupied the position at Goosey's Mill 
until the morning of the 7th instant. We dropped down the river 
to a short distance below Satartia. As the enemy were observed 
on the bluffs near the town, I disembarked my whole force and 
deployed the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, African descent, as 
skirmishers. The Eleventh Illinois Infantry formed in division 
as reserve, and gradually engaged the enemy, he rallying and 
moving by the left flank and toward their main body near Liver- 
pool. At 5 :30 o'clock I signaled my force to fall back to the trans- 
ports, and after securing myself against surprise and stationing 
a strong picket remained for the night. The following morning 
(February 8) at the suggestion of Captain Owen, commanding 



236 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

gun-boat fleet, I awaited the appearance of the gun-boat Louis- 
ville, which was hourly expected, and not making her appearance 
at my hour fixed for starting, about noon I left Satartia and pro- 
ceeded up the river, and was fully prepared and expected to meet 
with an engagement at Liverpool, but was surprised not to find 
any of the enemy at that point. Arriving at Goosey's Mill, 4 
miles below Yazoo City, I signaled the boats to proceed up the 
river, preceeded by two of the gun-boats, the two gun-boats 
passing the city and the transports landing within a mile of the 
city. In the meantime, when at Goosey's Mill, I dispatched a 
small but effective force of the Kirst Mississippi Cavalry, African 
descent. Major Cook commanding, and ordered them to proceed 
up the west bank of the river until opposite the city. Arriving 
at a point opposite the city, he encountered a small force of the 
enemy, and after a slight .skirmish succeeded in capturing two 
men and four horses. The enemy have moved south on the Bol- 
ton road and toward the Vicksburg and Jackson road. 

Respectfully, 

Jas. H. Coates, 

Commanding Yazoo River Expedition. 

LlEUTENANT-CoL. W. T. CLARK, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 318-19.) 



Headquarters U. S. Forces, 

Yazoo City, Miss., March 2, 1864. 

General: — I have the honor of communicating with you 28th 
ultimo, since which time I have been in occupation of this city ; 
not, however, without some little difficulties, as I am almost con- 
stantly engaged in skirmishing with the enemy. He comes up 
and drives my pickets in. I then run him off completely. This 
occures two or three times per day. It keeps us watchful, but I 
am under no apprehension at all, for I can hold this place, with- 
out doubt, against five times my numbers. The defenses are 
strong, and the approaches to them difficult. I was pleased to-day 
at receiving a communication from Colonel Crandal, dated at 
Satartia, and saying he was moving for Liverpool. This is just 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 137 

what is wanted if we are to hold this point. I have information 
that a portion of the force (rebel) here has gone to Liverpool, 
as I supposed they would. 

The force opposing me is Ross' brigade of about 1,400 men, 
and are encamped at 2 miles beyond Benton, 12 miles from here. 
They will be re-enforced, I am reliably informed, by Jackson's 
command, some 5,000 men, but whether for an attack upon me 
or not I am not prepared to say. I have this intelligence from 
an employe of mine, who has been with them for two days and 
returned today. 

Since hearing from Colonel Crandal I have concluded to send 
the fleet forward all except the Sir William Wallace, which T 
desire to keep here for foraging and other purposes for the bene- 
fit of the Government. 

The cotton I wrote you as being claimed by Forsyth I have 
given permission to ship to you and have you decide the legality 
of the purchase. 

I have my tents pitched, camps established, and everything 
looks cheering, with enough fighting to create a healthy circula- 
tion of the blood. 

Colonel Osband goes forward for his camp 'equipage, arms, 
etc., and will return in a few days. He has been eminently suc- 
cessful in recruiting, having his regiment nearly full and a mule 
or a horse for every recruit. 

Accompanying please find manifest of cargoes of boats and 
a statement of that which is on the gun-boats, but the latter of 
which I am not personally accountable for, as they claim to be 
a separate institution, and though it was difficult to convince 
me of the fact, yet, as advised toy General Sherman, I did not 
dispute the point of rank. 

Respectfully, 

Jas. H. Coates, 
Colonel Eleventh Illinois Infantry, 

Commanding Expedition. 
Brigadier-General McArthur, 

Commanding Post and Defenses, Vicksburg. Miss. 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 320.) 



138 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Headquarters Eleventh Illinois Infantry. 

Vicksburg, 2Iiss. } March 11, 1864. 

Sir : I have the honor herewith to present you the following- 
report of Yazoo River expedition, of which I had the honor 
of commanding: 

Pursuant to orders from Seventeenth Army Corps headquar- 
ters, and special instructions from Major-General Sherman, I 
embarked my command on the 31st of January last, consisting 
of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, Maj. George C. McKee com- 
manding (numbering 21 commissioned officers and 539 enlisted 
men), and Eigth Louisiana Infantry, African descent, Lieutenant- 
Colonel F. E. Peebles commanding (numbering 17 commissioned 
officers and 370 enlisted men), on board the transports assigned 
for the purpose, and disposing of them to the best advantage, and 
convoyed by five gun-boats, under command of Captain Owen, 
moved up the river, arriving the same night at the mouth of the 
Yazoo river, where we remained during the night, taking on 
sufficient fuel to last two weeks. 

On the morning of the 1st of February, I moved up the Yazoo 
river, arriving at Haynes Bluff the same evening, taking on a 
small detachment of the First Mississippi Cavalry, African des- 
cent, under command of Major Cook. 

On the following morning I moved up the river without in- 
terruption until within a mile of Satartia, where the enemy were 
reported to he, when I disembarked Major McKee with the left 
wing of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, and Major Cook with his 
small detachment of cavalry, with orders to move through the 
town and toward the bluffs. But few of the enemy's pickets 
were seen, who fled at our approach. 

I embarked my men again at Satartia, and on the following 
morning (February 3), moved up the river to within 2 miles 
of Liverpool Heights, when the enemy opened on my advance 
with two pieces of artillery. I immediately moved my trans- 
ports down out of range and disembarked the troops and made 
preparations to engage him, having ascertained the force to be 
Brigadier-General Ross' Texas brigade and numbering about 
1,400 men. I ordered Major McKee with the left wing of the 
Eleventh Illinois Infantry to move upon the extreme left with 



Third U S. Colored .Cavalry. 139 

skirmishers advanced, the right wing of the Eleventh in the 
center moving in the same manner, and the Eighth Louisiana 
Infantry, African descent, on the right and left center, to 
move forward with the Eleventh. We were soon warmly en- 
gaged, the enemy falling back to a hastily constructed breast- 
work of logs, etc., where they made a desperate stand. 

At this juncture Major McKee ordered a charge with the 
right wing only of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry (the left wing 
being engaged with the enemy's skirmishers), but the enemy be- 
ing in far superior numbers and having advantage of position, 
he was obliged to fall back to his former position under cover 
of a hill; not, however, without punishing the enemy severely, 
as could be seen by the removal of their wounded. The Eighth 
Louisiana Infantry, African descent, in the mean time had moved 
to the right and had engaged the enemy on the flank, but were 
compelled by superior numbers to fall back to their original 
position, being still at close range. Heavy skirmishing now be- 
gan between my force and the enemy, which continued until 
nearly sunset, when I gave the signal, and the entire command 
moved back to their respective boats in good order, removing 
our wounded with them. 

From observations I had made I was led to believe that the 
enemy expected me to renew the attack the following morning, 
and was more fully and better prepared to meet me, and knowing 
their superiority of numbers and large advantage of position, 
and with two pieces of artillery, and as they were out of range 
of the gun^boats, I concluded it to be a better policy to move 
up the river, in order to keep them near me, as was designed 
by Major-General Sherman. 

On the morning of the 4th, I again moved up the river, and, 
when nearly opposite the point where we had the engagement 
the day before, the enemy opened a brisk fire of musketry on the 
transports, permitting the advance gun-boats to pass unmolested. 
My men immediately formed temporary breast-works of boxes 
of hard bread, knapsacks, etc., and returned the fire with good 
effect. 

Five of my men were wounded in this affair, the names, etc., 
of which please find inclosed. 

From this point I proceeded up the river without interrup- 



140 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

tion within 6 miles of Yazoo City, where I remained during 
the following day, when I suggested to Captain Owen, com- 
manding gun-boat squadron, to move two of his boats to Yazoo 
City to reconnoitre, which was accordingly done. They re- 
turned in a few hours, reporting the enemy in heavy force in 
that place, and were fired upon with 1 artillery, two shots taking 
effect in one of the boats ; also reporting five guns in position 
and one in course of erection. 

I have since learned that but two pieces of artillery were 
there, and but a small force of infantry. 

Fearing a night attack, I moved down the river again nearly 
to Liverpool, where I remained until the following morning, 
when I learned from good authority that the main body of the 
enemy had left for Benton. I then moved a short distance up 
the river, when I observed men moving on the bluffs in the 
vicinity. 

I immediately disembarked a sufficient force, moving for- 
ward a line of skirmishers (with reserves at a proper distance), 
until we had full possession of the heights, exchanging but few 
shots, the enemy retreating on their horses back toward the 
interior. Fearing the small force I had disembarked would move 
too far from the boats, I ordered the proper signal to be given 
to return to the transports. 

The following morning I moved up the river without inter- 
ruption, and on the morning of the 9th of February took pos- 
session of Yazoo City. 

I had disembarked my small force of cavalry on the west 
side of the river with orders to move up to a point immediately 
opposite the city. They succeeded in capturing a small body 
of pickets, which had been left by the enemy, and which were 
duly forwarded to General McArthur by the next boat. 

The following day (February 10), Col. E. D. Osband ar- 
rived from Haynes Bluff with the balance of 'his regiment of 
cavalry, making a very effective force of about 250 men. At 
daylight of the morning of the 11th of February, I moved up 
the river, arriving without interruption from the enemy until 
on the 13th of February, when near the head of Honey Island, 
about 60 confederate soldiers were observed ahead and on the 
right bank of the river. I immediately ordered Colonel Osband 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 141 

to disembark with his command and engage them, moving my 
transports at the same time at supporting distance and my men 
ready to disembark immediately. 

The enemy fled back from the river, closely followed by 
Colonel Osband, who skirmished with them as long as he con- 
sidered it prudent to do so, when he returned to the boats, 
having had 3 men wounded and losing a few horses killed, but 
had used the enemy severely and succeeded in capturing 3 
prisoners. 

I moved from this point and arrived at Greenwood, Miss., 
at 9 p. m. on the 14th of February, having moved with great 
caution as far as Fort Pemberton, but found it evacuated. 

On the morning of the 16th of February, I ordered Colonel 
Osband with his regiment of cavalry to proceed to Grenada, un- 
less he found the enemy in too strong force. He returned the 
following day and reported having been within 5 miles of 
Grenada, and had learned that it was occupied by General Forest 
with ibis command, but who was reported as moving out from that 
place. 

I remained at Greenwood until the morning of February 
19th, securing as much cotton, etc., as possible during the time. 
when I received orders from Brigadier-General McArtbur, com- 
manding at Vicksburg, to return to Yazoo City and hold that 
position until further orders, (please find a copy of order in- 
closed). 

I immediately moved down the river, taking cotton, corn, 
etc., when found on plantations of disloyal parties, making my 
descent necessarily slow, (report of cotton, stock, etc., please 
find inclosed), I arrived, however, without interruption further 
than the tearing off the upper works of the transports by over- 
hanging trees to within 6 miles of Yazoo City, Sunday, February 
28th, where I disembarked my whole force of cavalry, with in- 
structions to move in rear of Yazoo City and take possession 
of all the roads leading therefrom. I then moved down leisurely 
with the gun-boats and transports (giving the cavalry ample 
time to secure all the outlets from the city) and commenced dis- 
embarking my infantry. Before, however, I had my force moved 
from the boats, I received information that the enemy had at- 
tacked my cavalry picket force. I immediately ordered Major 



142 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Cook, First Mississippi Cavalry, African descent, with a detacfr- 
mient of bis command to move out on the Benton road and re- 
connoiter. I then disembarked my infantry and formed in line, 
moving the Eleventh Regiment double-quick to the works com- 
manding the Benton road and the Eighth Louisiana, African 
descent, to the ridge road on the right and commanding the bluff 
and stationed two companies of cavalry on the extreme left. 

About 3 p. m. Major Cook returned, followed closely by a 
much superior force of the enemy until within irange of my line 
of skirmishers, who drove them back and skirmished with them 
nearly 3 miles. 

Major Cook reported having run in General Ross' entire 
command about 6 miles out from the city, and w'too were evidently 
endeavoring to gain possession of the works on the heights be- 
fore our arrival. 

The loss in this affair to the cavalry was rather heavy, con- 
sidering the numbers engaged. I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel 
Peebles and Major McKee to hold the positions they then oc- 
cupied, the men of their command to lie on their arms and ready 
for any emergency. The enemy, however, made no attack in 
force, but annoyed our pioket line continuously- About noon 
on the 29th of February, ray camp and garrison equipage ar- 
rived, and I ordered the commandants of each regiment to select 
a suitable camp-ground as near their positions as possible, which 
was accordingly done, and on the 1st instant we were in very 
comfortable quarters. 

The enemy would every day make a dash on my advance 
picket-posts and vedetts, but would retire upon any demonstra- 
tion being made by the .reserves, and being well mounted, could 
not be overtaken. 

LTpon the night of 4th instant, I ascertained that General 
Ross had been reenforced by the 1 command of Brigadier-General 
Richardson (reported to have 800 Tennessee troops.) I gave 
orders to have my picket .reserves strengthened by two companies 
of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry and two companies of the 
Eighth Louisiana African descent. 

Upon the morning of Saturday, 5th instant, a heavy attack 
was made on my center picket (Benton road) but they stood their 
ground manfully, and not until the enemy had opened a heavy 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 143 

artillery fire upon the picket and reserves did they fall back to 
the main body of the regiment. 

The engagement had now become extended throughout my 
entire line. 

I had instructed Lieutenant-Colonel Peebles and Major 
McKee to hold their positions at all hazards, as their redoubts 
commanded the entire city, and as long as they were held we 
had the town in our possession. 

About 10 o'clock a. m. I discovered a movement on the part 
of the enemy to flank me on the left, where I posted a small 
detachment of the First Mississippi Cavalry. I at once ordered 
four companies of the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, African des- 
cent, stationed over a mile distant, to their support. They came 
gallantly forward double-quick, but before they arrived within 
supporting distance General Richardson's entire command had 
entered the city proper, two regiments being between my head- 
quarters and Fort McKee. 

At this time Major McKee 'had sent out a portion of com- 
pany K, Eleventh Regiment, to open communication to my head- 
quarters, but finding the enemy in too strong force they endeav- 
ored to move back to the works, and in doing so the enemy 
succeeded in capturing 10 of them prisoners. Three of them, 
however, escaped into the city, informing me that my only piece 
of artillery (a small howitzer borrowed from the gun-boat Ex- 
change, and which was posted in the redoubt occupied by Major 
McKee) had become disabled. I immediately sent for another 
of the same kind, but before I could get it in the redoubt the 
enemy had gained full possession of the street, and I posted it 
upon the corners of the principal streets of the city and behind 
a hastily constructed breast-work of cotton, and I regret to say 
at the first fire of the enemy the officer in charge of the gun (En- 
sign Holmes, U. S. Navy) and his men shamefully deserted it 
and fled to the boat, but were met by captain McEl-roy, command- 
ing gun-boat, who refused them permission to come on board 
the boat. 

1 succeeded, however, in moving the gun from its position, 
and procured another squad to man it. and who performed their 
duty faithfully and with great bravery. The enemy at this time 
beg-an to crowd my small force, and I ordered two more com- 



144 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

panies from the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, African descent, who 
responded with alacrity. I now distributed my small force, con- 
sisting of Company A, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, and six com- 
panies of the Eighth Louisiana Infantry, through the streets, 
in doorways, houses, etc., and commenced a vigorous and telling 
fire upon the enemy, the howitzer discharging shell with telling 
effect into the houses the enemy had taken possession of. During 
this time the enemy were pouring a heavy discharge of shot and 
shell from six pieces of i-rtillery, doing little damage, however, 
except to the buildings. 

In the meantime Major McKee in 'his redoubt, with nine 
companies of the Eleventh and Major Cook with his small de- 
tachment of 80 men in thei rifle-pits (the rifle-pits having been 
constructed the day before), and Lieutenant-Colonel Peebles, 
with his four companies on the right, were doing nobly. 

Major McKee was for four hourse surrounded on three sides 
by the enemy with six regiments, and three times was he ordered 
to surrender (orders to surrender and reply of major please 1 find 
inclosed). 

During the whole time the enemy had gained his position 
so as to strike the fort. He had kept up a continuous fire of 
artillery and small arms, in which our loss was very severe. 

About 2 p. m. my force made a desperate charge through 
the streets, completely routing the enemy and pursuing them 
entirely through the town and beyond the breast-works in the 
left, my single piece of artillery doing fine execution. The force 
around and engaged with Major McKee, perceiving their right 
falling iback in disorder, fell into confusion and began to retreat 
in great disorder, and the major, with only six men, sallied from 
the fort and with loud cheers actually turned the flank of one 
entire regiment. , > 

The enemy now fell back out of range, and his losses must 
have been very severe, they admitting the loss of over 40 killed, 
and their ambulances could be seen constantly employed. 

My casualties of this and previous engagements during the 
expedition please find inclosed.* 

Before the engagement of the 5th instant, I had received a 
communication from General Ross, of which please find "copies 
with answer inclosed ; also copy of communication from General 




CAPT. GEO. C. STARK, 
Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 145 

Richardson, received immediately after tire engagement, and 
answer inclosed. 

♦Nominal list (omitted) shows 31 killed, 121 wounded, and 
31 missing". 

I cannot close this report without expressing my heartfelt 
thanks and unbounded admiration for the very able support 
afforded me by the brave !Maj. George C. McKee and the officers 
and men of his command; to Maj. J. B. Cook, First Mississippi 
Cavalry, African descent, and the officers and men of his com- 
mand ; to Lieut. Col. F. E. Peebles, Eighth Louisiana Infantry, 
African descent, and officers and men composing his command, 
and would respectfully call your attention to the bravery, cool- 
ness and ability of these officers. 

To Capt. N. C. Kenyon, Company K; Adjt. H. H. Deane, 
Lieut. J. VV. Brewster, acting regimental quartermaster ; Lieut. 
Charles A. Pieronniet, Company E, all of the Eleventh Illinois 
Infantry, I am under particular obligations. They formed my 
staff, and acted with all the energy, bravery, coolness, and deter- 
mined perseverence in the discharge of their arduous duties as 
they ever have been noted for. 

To Lieut. Orton Ingersoll, Company A, Eleventh Regiment, 
and the brave men of his command (who were detailed for pro- 
vost guard, and for a long time during the engagement were 
the only company in the streets of the city), I desire to bespeak 
your most considerate attention. During the advance of the 
enemy into the city, this company held greatly superior numbers 
in check and disputed every inch of ground. 

I neglected to report in the proper place, that at about 11a. in. 
on the 5th instant, when I found my position somewhat closely 
pressed, I dispatched the transport Sir William Wallace to Liver- 
pool (24 miles) to bring the command (or as much as could 
be spared) of Colonel Crandal, Tenth Louisiana, African descent, 
stationed at that point, but for some cause they did not arrive at 
Yazoo City until the fight was over. 

Upon Sunday evening, 6th instant, the transports South 
Western, Mars, and Emerald arrived, bringing orders from head- 
quarters Seventeenth Army Corps to embark all the force, stores, 
etc., and again disembark the force at Liverpool. Marching from 
thence, and leaving tine troops belonging at Haynes Bluff at that 
point, and bringing those belonging to Yicksburg to that station, 



146 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

all of which, I have the honor to report, was accomplished with- 
out opposition from the enemy. 

I have the honor herewith to inclose a rough sketch of *Yazoo 
City and its surrounding, with the position of troops, etc. 
I have the honor, colonel, to remain, respectfully, 
Jas. H. Coates, 
Col. llth Illinois Inf. Vols., 
Commanding Yazoo River Expedition. 
Lieut. Col. W. T. Clark, 

A ssistan t A dju tan t- G en eral. 



(Indorsements.) 
Headquarters Department Oe The Tennessee. 

Huntsville, April 2, 1864. 

Respectfully forwarded to headquarters Millitary Division, 

and special attention called to the gallantry and bravery of Colonel 

Coates, Major McKee, and the officers and soldiers under them. 

Jas. B. McPherson, 
Major-GcneraX Commanding. 



Headquarters Military Div. oe the Mississippi. 

Nashville, Tenn., April 16, 1864. 
Recorded and respectfully forwarded for the information of 
the War Department. 

W. T. Sherman, 
Major-General, Commanding. 
(R. R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 320 to 326.) 



EIRST LIEUTENANT JAMES S. MATTHEWS. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Morris county, State 
of New Jersey, November 18, 1845. At the breaking out of the 
war he was living in Joliet, 111., where he enlisted, October 9, 
1861. in Company C, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, being then scarcely 
sixteen years of age. Going to the front with his regiment, he 
was active in the battle of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson, doing 




JAS. S. MATTHEWS, 
1st Lieut. Third U S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 147 

duty as orderly for General John A. McClernard. At the battle 
of Shiloh, he was orderly for General W. H. L. Wallace, and 
was later orderly at General John A. Logan's headquarters dur- 
ing- that general's occupation of Jackson, Tenn., in 1862. 

He was with his company in the forward movement of the 
army under General Grant, in the fall and wintei of 1862, par- 
ticipating in all the battles and skirmishes of that eventful cam- 
paign, which closed with the defeat of the Union Cavalry at 
Coffeville, Miss. In the last named engagement his horse was 
shot and killed under him, and he narrowly escaped capture. 

On January 27, 1863, while on a scout with his company, 
under Lieutenant J. E. Hitt, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, a few miles 
from Colliersville, Tenn., the command was attacked by an over- 
powering force of rebel cavalry, and in the fight that ensued, 
two men of his company were killed and seven wounded, and all 
taken prisoners except young Mathews and another man, who 
made their escape by dashing through the enemy's ranks, being 
hotly pursued for a long distance. 

He was promoted to the rank of Corporal, July 1, 1863, 
for meritorious conduct in action. He was mustered out of the 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry, October 9, 1863, to accept promotion 
as Second Lieutenant in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, and 
assigned to Company A. On receipt of his commission, Lieu- 
tenant Matthews was detailed as recruiting officer and instructor 
for the new recruits of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. He 
was promoted to First Lieutenant, August 26, 1865, which posi- 
tion he held until the regiment was mustered out of the service, 
January 26, 1866. 

To follow this officer in detail through all the battles, cam- 
paigns and skirmishes he took part in would fill a volume and 
read like a romance. 

One of the first officers commissioned in the regiment, as- 
sisting in recruiting and drilling the first company, with them 
in every battle and campaign, conspicuous in every engagement, 
standing with them in the deadly breach, keeping vigil with them 
on the lonely picket post, bivouacing with them in sunshine and 
in rain, and one of the last to see the regiment disbanded at the 
close of the war, the record of Lieutenant Matthews connection 
with the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry is closely interwoven with 
the history of the regiment. 



148 






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15a Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

THE BUGLE CORPS OF THE REGIMENT. 

This history would be incomplete without mention of this 
organization, which attracted much attention, both in and out 
of the army. 

The chief of this corps, V. H. Behr, was a German musician 
of more than ordinary ability, and to him is due the credit of 
organizing, instructing, and bringing to a high state of perfec- 
tion one of the finest bugle corps of the whole union arm. These 
buglers were selected from the enlisted men of the regiment, 
two from each company, twenty-four in ail, the chief making 
twenty-five. 

The selection of these men were left to the discretion of 
the chief bugler, Sergeant Behr, who sifted the regiment until 
he found the right men — men who had an ear for music, melody 
in their souls. 

They were all young, bright mulattoes, intelligent, and quick 
to 'learn. They were put through a course of instruction that 
brought forth the best results. Reveille, when sounded by this 
corps, twenty-five experts, awoke the echoes far and near, eliciting 
the applause of all listeners. 

At such times when the regiment could have dress parade, 
mounted or dismounted, this corps, led by their chief, marching 
by fours, playing selected airs, was a marked feature of fche 
parade. One of their favorite airs being, "John Brown's soul 
goes marching on." On these occasions the camp of the regiment 
would be thronged with visitors. 

Under the tutelage of their chief, they became proficient musi- 
cians, many of them expert performers on various instruments. 

Many of them had fine voices, and the bones and banjo con- 
certs they gave, attracted many people to the camp. In this par- 
ticular they became artists of no mean degree. 

Probably never before was so much negro melody concen- 
trated in one organization. 



FIRST LIEUTENANT AND ADJUTANT. FRANCIS E. L0VEJ0Y. 

Francis E. Lovejoy. 
Was born in Sheawassee county, State of Michigan. August 
26, 1843, died at Minneapolis, Minn., December 23. 1870. He 




FRANK E. I.OVKJOY. 
Lieut, and Adjt. Third U. S. C C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 157 

enlisted in Company A, Four tin Illinois Cavalry, August 14, 1862, 
which company was then doing duty as General Grant's escort. 
During his connection with this company he was detailed as 
clerk at General Grant's headquarters, in which' capacity he 
served with marked ability. His conscientious application to 
duty, intelligence and gentlemanly deportment attracted the at- 
tention of General Grant, who advanced him to one of the most 
responsible positions in his clerical force. He was commissioned 
First Lieutenant and Adjutant of the Third U. S. Colored Cav- 
alry, October 18, 1863, being recommended for the position by 
General Grant, and a more fitting selection could not have been 
made. His experience as clerk at General Grant's headquarters, 
where he acquired a thorough knowledge of the "army red tape" 
eminently fitted him for the position, which he filled with rare 
ability until failing health compelled him to quit the service. Of 
a frail constitution, the hardships and exposures of camp life 
overtaxed his powers of endurance, marking him for one of 
its victims. He resigned his commission November 12, 1864, 
and returned to his home in Michigan, taking with him the love 
and respect of all who knew him. 

The master hand that had piloted the (business affairs of the 
regiment through the mazes of "Army red tape" was sadly 
missed, the loss being irreparable. His place was never filled 
with the same degree of ability. 

In the person of Lieutenant Lovejoy was typified in the full- 
est sense the soldier, gentleman, scholar and patriotic citizen. 



CHAPTER XI. 



THE FIRST BATTALION AT GOODRICH S LANDING. 

In April 1864, the First Battalion, Companies A, E, I, and 
L, Major Charles H. Chap in commanding, was ordered to Good- 
rich's Landing, on the west bank of the Mississippi river, in 
Louisiana, to strengthen the garrison at that place. 

The force then stationed at Goodrich's Landing consisted of 
the 51st and 66th U. S. Colored Infantry and Battery D, 2nd U. 
S. Light Artillery, Colored. Colonel A. Watson Webber com- 
manded the post. 



158 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

While stationed at this post, covering a period of about six 
months, the battalion, under the able command of Major Chapin, 
did excellent service in freeing that section of the country from 
roving bands of rebel cavalry and guerrillas, having many bloody 
encounters, with them. 

The large cotton plantations in that part of Louisiana, with 
their well filled store-houses, containing a superabundance of 
supplies, corn, bacon, sweet potatoes, hay, fodder, etc, large 
quantities of Which had been collected for the use of the Con- 
federate army. This section therefore offered great inducements 
to the depredatory bands infesting that region, and who plun- 
dered the inhabitants irrespective of friend or foe. 

These bands of freebooters also made navigation extremely 
hazardous on the Mississippi river, firing into and capturing 
steam boats. The almost impenetrable swamps and cane brakes 
along the bayous and inland streams afforded a safe retreat and 
hiding place for these bands of plunderers, from which they could 
defy successful pursuit. 

Hardly a night passed that the troopers were not aroused 
from their sleep by the familiar bugle call "boots and saddles," to 
be sent out on a wild goose chase after these phantom-like horse- 
men, only to find a plundered plantation, the depredators having 
vanished in the darkness after doing: their work. 



A RAID THAT LEFT DEATH AND DESTRUCTION IN ITS WAKE. 
MAJOR CHAPIN'S BOED AND DASHING MOVEMENTS. 

The uncivilized and barborous mode of warfare practiced by 
the marauders in making war on non-combatants, pillaging plan- 
tations, murdering and running off their help, waylaying and 
looting steam-boats, etc., grew to such an alarming extent that 
the Department Commander determined to put a stop to it by 
dealing the perpetrators such a blow as they would not soon re- 
cover from, in fact, if necessary to exterminate them. 

A raid was therefore planned and carried out under the di- 
rection of the department commander. Major Chapin was 
charged with the execution of the orders for ridding the country 
of these marauders. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 159 

The force for this work was made up as follows : 

Company A, Captain W. W. Webber, commanding, with Lieu- 
tenant James S. Matthews. 

Company E, Captain Frank Cook, commanding-, with Lieu- 
tenant John Shotzell. 

Company I, Captain Jesse Brainard, commanding, with Lieu- 
tenant E. L. Eggleston. 

Company L, Captain Henry Fretz, commanding, with Lieu- 
tenant John T. Sherman, making a total of 8 commissioned officers 
and 265 enlisted men, all of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Comparatively speaking this force would not be considered a 
very formidable one, but it was considered quite sufficient to ac- 
complish the work laid out for it. Only the best men and horses 
of these companies were taken, the selection being made from the 
best mounted men, those capable of performing a long, rapid 
march, the rapidity of movement being deemed the prime factor 
to insure success. It was not so much a question of the numerical 
strength of this command as of its personnel, the dash and daring 
of its officers, and the leadership of its commander, whose intrepid 
daring and tact fitted him so well for such a hazardous duty. And 
the implicit confidence of his officers and men insured success 
almost from the start. 

The success of the expedition depended 'largely, if not wholly, 
on the rapidity of its movements, boldness of action, and its 
ability to avoid contact with large bodies of the enemy, which 
wieire known to be operating in that vicinity. 

Major Chapin's orders led him almost into the stronghold of 
the enemy. If cut off and surrounded they had but one alterna- 
tive and that was to cut their way out. Concerning this raid 
Major Chapin says: 

"The men and horses selected for this raid were the choice of 
the four companies, those best suited for a long, rapid march. 

I received my instructions from General Canby, which were 
to proceed to Ashley Landing, Where I was to let my men and 
horses rest over night, and, taking an early start the next morning 
proceed to Pinhook, where a large quantity of corn was stored, 
which I was ordered to destroy, then move on to Floyd, on Bayou 
Macon, and destroy the corn stored at that place, and also to burn 
certain buildings. 



160 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

We moved in light marching order, carrying three days' ration 
of hardtack and coffee, and 200 rounds of ammunition per man. 

Leaving Goodrich's landing early in the morning, we marched 
thirty miles that day, camping for the night at a point near Ash- 
ley, where I used fifteen men for picket and camp guard. These 
men, by instructions, I sent back to Goodrich's Landing the next 
morning, it being proposed to start from Ashley with fresh men 
and horses. Leaving Ashley at an early hour on the following 
morning, I moved out on the road to Pinhook, giving Lieutenant 
Sherman the extreme advance with a small detail, and Captain 
Webber the rear with his company. 

Our march was uninterrupted until we reached Tensus river, 
where we found the crossing guarded by one or two companies 
of rebel cavalry, commanded by a Captain Collins, who disputed 
our right to cross the river, but his obstinaney cost him his life. 

Charging without counting heads, we went through them like 
a whirlwind, killing the captain and four of his men. 

This little diversion only detained us about ten minutes. Push- 
ing on toward Pinhook, and when near that town, we were at- 
tacked simultaneously in front and rear, the enemy seeming to 
be in considerable force, but we pushed steadily ahead, driving 
the enemy before us, while the rear guard, 'Captain Webber com- 
manding, fought them off in that direction. 

At this time it began to look as though we were treading on 
dangerous ground. The enemy were evidently concentrating and 
closing in around us. But my orders were to go to Pinhook. and 
remembering the motto on the prairie schooners on the western 
plains, "Pikes Peak or bust," we adopted the cry "Pinhook or 
bust," and as we came in sight of the place, swarming with rebel 
cavalry, it beigan to look as though it would be a case of bust. 
However, leaving one company in the rear to hold the enemy in 
check in that direction, with the other three companies I charged, 
driving the rebels, through and out of the town. 

They were not looking for a charge, consequently were not 
prepared for one, and they evidently overestimated my force, else 
they would have stood their ground. 

On gaining possession of the place we lost no time in firing 
the warehouses containing the corn and other supplies. Twenty 
thousand bushels of corn and other army supplies were burned 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 101 

at this place. We stood guard over the burning- buildings, fighting 
the enemy off until the fire was 'beyond control. Though our 
horses were in need of a good feed of the corn we were burning, 
the enemy pressed us so hard that we had no opportunity to feed 
them. Leaving Pinhook, fighting our way through the enemy, 
we took the road to Floyd, which was 20 miles distant. 

We were now within a few miles of a large force of the enemy- 
Their scouting parties were all around us. We were leaving 
death and destruction in our wake. The country was becoming 
terribly aroused. The enemy seemed to be on every side of us, 
and were hourly growing stronger, but they evidently lacked 
leadership and concert of action. Our safety depended on rapid 
movements and confusing them. Though the day was hot and 
we had ridden far and hard, still we kept on, urging our horses 
to a lively pace. Thus far our march had 'been marked by an al- 
most continuous skirmish, the enemy pressing us in both front 
and rear. 

The sun was sinking low in the western horizon when we 
came in sight of Floyd. Before: us lay a stretch of open country, 
fields and pasture land, with here and there a clump of trees. 
A glance sufficed to show that the conditions were favorable for 
the movement of cavalry. We could see that the streets were full 
of rebel cavalry, and that they seemed to be in a state of excite- 
ment and confusion. This circumstance argued well for the suc- 
cess of a charge, so closing up the column, we charged down upon 
them with a yell that carried terror to their scattered ranks, when, 
breaking in every direction, they fled before us, only stopping on 
reaching the woods on the other side of thie town, under cover of 
which they made a stand, where we held them at bay, as well as 
the force in our rear, until the work of destruction was completed. 

Ten thousand bushels of corn together with the buildings was 
destroyed at this place. Night settled down over the scene be- 
fore this work was completed. The burning buildings lit up a 
wide expanse, exposing my men to the fire of the enemy. The 
object of our visit having been accomplished, I deter- 
mined to make a dash for the open country, to gain 
which, however, we must ride down the enemy, as he occu- 
pied the road in our front. Getting my force well in hand, we 
moved out in column of fours at a gallop, increasing our pace as 



162 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

we neared the enemy, and went through them, firing right and 
left with revolvers. 

In the darkness the enemy did not, probably, fully realize the 
situation until we were upon them, and then it was too late to 
make effective resistance. 

Many of the enemy were killed and wounded in this charge, 
nine were known to have been killed. Our loss was one man 
killed and four wounded. 

The enemy made but a feeble attempt to follow us after this. 
They had evidently had enough of it, and we were left to continue 
our march unmolested. We reached Jose Bayou late that night, 
where we camped, having marched 74 miles in 19 hours, 30 miles 
of this distance was covered by continuous skirmishing with the 
enemy. That night fifteen of our horses died from over-exertion. 
Leaving Jose Bayou on the following morning, we took up our 
homeward march, reaching Goodrich's landing that afternoon. 

Referring to the incidents of this raid Major Chapin says: 
"Soon after leaving Ashley, Captain Webber was taken suddenly 
ill, and being unable to ride his horse an old carryall was pro- 
cured for him to ride in, but when the fighting commenced he 
mounted his horse, and took command of- his company, saying 
that he could not fight worth a cent in a wagon. 

Lieutenant Calais joined us at Ashley during the night, from 
which point he rode with the advance, doing scouting duty. He 
left Goodrich's Landing one night in advance of the command, 
going out as a scout to gather information respecting the move- 
ments of the enemy, in which capacity he did valuable service." 



UKUTENANT SHOTZELL BRINGS DOWN HTS MAN AT 800 YARDS. 

Information having reached camp that a force of rebel cavalry 
were prowling about somewhere in the vicinity, Major Chapin 
was ordered out with the effective force of the battalion to make 
a reconnoisance. 

The command left camp in high spirits and fine condition for 
a fight. Soldiers soon weary of the dull routine of camp duty. 
Inactivity and idleness breed discontent from which a long train 
of evils follow, seriously impairing the efficiency and morale of 
an army. Happily, however, the battalion was exempt from long 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 163 

seasons of idleness, which undoubtedly conducted to the good dis- 
cipline and efficiency of fihle corps. 

Proceeding about ten miles, firing by the advance guard de- 
noted the presence of the enemy. Instantly every man tightened 
his bridle reins and clutched his carbine with a firmer grip. 

The enemy when encountered, were about half way across a 
large clearing, perhaps half a mile in extent. The advance guard 
opened fire upon them from the edge of the woods, when Major 
Chapin, taking the gallop, brought the battalion left front into 
line, the companies delivering their fire as they came into line at 
the edge of the clearing. By this prompt action the position of 
the enemy was made untenable, and he fell back across the clear- 
ing to the woods on the other side, where he re-formed behind a 
rail fence and waited for the attack to be renewed. 

A direct charge across the open field with the advantage all 
on the side of the enemy, would involve too great a loss, therefore 
some other tactics must be adopted to dislodge the enemy. Major 
Chapin was, however, equal to the emergency. He ordered Com- 
pany A, Lieutenant Calais commanding, to file off to the left, 
take the gallop, and gain a point parallel with the fence occupied 
by the enemy, and attack them on the flank. 

Lieutenant Calais executed his order with such celerity that 
the enemy did not discover it unti-1 they found themselves at- 
tacked on the flank, and seeing Major Chapin's column charging 
down upon them in front, they broke in confusion. A running 
fight was then kept up for several miles, no chance being given 
the enemy to make a stand. 

At the beginning of the fig'ht and while the enemy were form- 
ing on the opposite side of the clearing, one of their officers rode 
out into the clearing, evidently to get a better view of our force, 
when Lieutenant Sh'otzell, taking a carbine from one of his men, 
fired at the officer, who fell from ihlis horse, either killed or wound- 
ed. The distance was not less than 800 yards. This was con- 
sidered a pretty good shot, but was not uncommon in the regiment. 

A BOLD DASH AND AN EXCITING CHASE. 

Lieutenants Calais and Matthews were sent out with Company 
A to reconnoitre the country south of Goodrich's Landing. They 
were to make quite a circuit, which! would cover a considerable 
scope of country, and would consume the entire day. They left 
camp by the river road, proceeding leisurely and with the usual 



164 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

caution. About noon they left the river road and were returning 
by another route which run further back from the river and skirted 
the swamp. On turning an abrupt bend in the road they unex- 
pectedly ran into a force of rebel cavalry, which greatly out- 
numbered them. 

It seemed to be a case of mutual surprise, both parties being 
somewhat off their guard. But Lieutenant Calais, who was in com- 
mand, could always be depended upon to extricate himself from a 
difficult position. Quick to act, he never allowed an enemy to get 
the advantage of him. Fearless and impetuous, he never stopped 
to count the cost. If ten t:mes his number had confronted him, he 
would not have hesitated to measure strength with them. So in 
this instance, being heartily (supported by Lieutenant Matthews, 
he gave the enemy a volley, and, with a yell, dashed at them. The 
very audacity of the thing turned the tide of battle in his favor. 
The enemy, thinking, evidently, that they had met a large force, 
beat a hasty retreat, Lieutenant Calais and his men pursuing. 

The road on which the rebels retreated led into a tangled and 
densely wooded swamp, m which many of them sought safety, 
where, in its maze of vines and brambles, mounted men could not 
follow, they having abandoned their horses. 

Lieutenant Calais, singling out the rebel commander, who was 
in the rear, making desperate efforts to rally his men under cover 
of the woods, pressed him so closely that he too was compelled 
to abandon his horse and take to the swamp. 

Lieutenant Calais, however, captured the horse, a fine thor- 
oughbred animal, which, with the other captured horses, ten in 
all, were taken back to camp. The horse captured by Lieutenant 
Calais proved to be the property of Captain Lusk of the Confed- 
erate army, and commander of the opposing force. 

The horse was turned over to Captain Webber, who rode him 
until the close of the war. The hiorse was christened "Lusk," 
and was so called by every one in the battalion. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 165 



A RAID ACROSS THE RIVER IN THE DEER CREEK COUNTRY. 

CAPTURE OF A REBEL QUARTERMASTER WHO HAD CONFEDERATE 

MONEY TO BURN. 

Information having reached headquarters that agents of the 
Confederate States Government were in the Yazoo delta, buying 
up and collecting together large quantities of supplies for the 
Confederate army, Major Chapin was ordered to embark his bat- 
talion on a steamer, which was sent up from Vicksburg for that 
purpose, cross the river and scout the Deer Creek country. 

Proceeding as directed, Major Chapin disembarked his com- 
mand on the East side of the Mississippi river, from which point 
he scouted the country above and below along the river front, 
and for some distance in the interior. He met no force sufficient 
to retard his march. A few scattering bands of bushwhackers 
were met here and there, which were quickly brushed aside, but 
they proved very annoying, as they hung on the flanks, front and 
rear, firing from ambush and worrying the pickets. 

The region passed over was one of the richest cotton producing 
sections of the south. In this section, abounding in wealth, rich 
in the sinews of war, the Confederate authorities were gathering 
supplies for their destitute soldiers in the field. Large quantities 
of these supplies were found and destroyed. 

At one place a Confederate Quartermaster was captured. He 
had in his possession a large amount of Confederate money, with 
which he was paying for supplies for the Confederate army. The 
money was confiscated and subsequently turned over to the proper 
authorities. 

This Quartermaster bewailed the loss of the supplies that were 
destroyed, but seemed to care little for the loss of the money, 
saying, "we have money to burn, but we need the supplies badly." 

The object of the raid having been accomplished, the command 
was headed back toward rhe river, the point of debarkation, where 
the boat was found in waiting. On reaching the river, Captain 
Frank Cook rode down the bank to water his horse, when the 
horse sank in the quicksand, the captain having barely time to 



166 TUrd U S. Colored Cavalry. 

free himself from the; saddle before the horse went out of sight. 

It had been the intention to water all the horses at this place, 
but after Captain Cook's experience a safer watering place was 
found. 

Embarking on the steamer, the command was soon back across 
the river in their camp at Goodrich's Landing. 



FIRST LIEUTENANT F\ W. CALAIS. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Iroquois County, State 
of Illinois, in 1842. He inlisted September 1861, in Company D, 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry, then being organized at Ottawa, Illinois. 
On joining the regiment, he was detailed to organize and instruct 
a corps of buglers for the regiment, which duty he performed 
with credit, bringing the corps to a high standard of proficiency. 
Going to the front with the regiment, he was detailed as chief 
bugler, doing duty as such during the Fort Henry and Donelson 
campaigns, when at his own request he returned to duty in 
his company, with which he served continuously until October 
1863, taking an active part in all the battles and campaigns of 
that regiment from Shiloh to Vicksburg. 

Octobed 9, 1863, he was commissioned First Lieutenant by 
the President, and assigned to Company A, Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry. He was active in enlisting and drilling the first com- 
pany enrolled for that regiment. 

By his conspicuous gallantry, soldierly deportment, dash and 
daring, Lieutenant Calais contributed largely to the splendid 
record the regiment achieved. Always on the active list he took a 
prominent part in all the battles and campaigns the regiment was 
engaged in. Never lagging, foremost in every position of danger, 
persevering when others faltered, in him was exemplified the qual- 
ities of a leader of men. 

Lieutenant Calais' record in the regiment furnishes many ex- 
amples of dash and daring, and was characterized throughout by 
a devotion to duty and efficiency that but few officers attained. 
His presence on the firing line or leading the charge, inspired con- 
fidence and contributed largely to the victories won. 

The war being nearly at its close, he resigned his commission 
May 26, 1865, and returned to the pursuits of civil life. 




FRANK W. CALAIS, 
1st Lieut. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 167 

CHAPTER XII. 

Expedition to bkxton and black river aprie and may, 1864. 

This expedition left Vicksburg May 4, 1864 and was composed 
of the following troops : Detachments from the Eleventh Illinois 
Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Third U. S. Colored Cav- 
alry, the latter commanded by Major Cook; First Kansas mounted 
Infantry, making a total force of 244 men and officers, mounted 
men, under command of Colonel E. D. Osband. One brigade of 
infantry, commanded by Colonel James H. Coates, the Seventh 
Ohio Battery, and Bolton's Illinois Battery, making a total force 
of about 3,500 men, all under command of Brigadier-General 
John McArthur. 

The expedition scouted the country between the Yazoo and 
Big Black rivers, embracing a section of country over which the 
enemy held sway, and to venture into which meant hard fighting 
from the start. 

During the first three days' march, none but small, scattering 
bands of the enemy were encountered, but on the fourth day, 
May 7, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry having the advance, en- 
countered a force of the enemy, about 400 cavalry, with whom 
they had a sharp skirmish, the enemy retiring. 

As the regiment approached Benton, the enemy were found 
prepared to give battle, being posted in the streets of the town. 

Major Cook directed Captain Coykendall, with his own and 
another company to flank the enemy's position by moving under 
cover of some timber, while he, with the balance of the regiment, 
moved to attack them in front. The flank movement was a com- 
plete surprise to the enemy, who, evidently believing that tl ey 
were being surrounded, became so disconcerted that they fled pre- 
cipitately, closely pursued through and beyond the town b\ t e 
charging squadrons of Major Cook. 

This precipitate retreat on the part of the enemy may, how- 
ever, been intended as a decoy, for Major Cook and his men were 
soon brought up with a round turn, and a six gun battery opened 
fire on them from an adjacent hill, which sent them to the right 
about in a hurry, seeking cover behind a rise of ground. For- 
tunately at this opportune moment, Bolton's Illinois battery, six 
Rodman guns, coming to the front went into position, when an 
exciting artillery duel ensued, which, though of short duration, 



168 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

was decisive, the enemy's guns being no match for Rodman's 
rifled pieces, were soon put out of business, not, however, until 
one of Bolton's guns was disabled. 

Moving forward again, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
pushed the enemy back about five miles, when he made another 
stand, seizing the opportunity while the regiment was moving 
along a narrow road inclosed by a high fence on both sides, where 
they raked the column with a withering fire. 

The only avenue of escape from the fenced road was through 
a large open hallway of a house opposite the column ; this Major 
Cook took advantage of by galloping his command through the 
hallway, thus gaining the 'Open field on the other side, from whichl 
point he drove the enemy from his position. It was stated that, 
during the clatter of the cavalry through the hallway, an old 
lady sat composedly fanning herself in an adjoining room. 

Soon after this affair the regiment was recalled, and joined 
the main column, which went into camp near Benton, where it 
remained several days, detachments doing some light scouting 
in the meantime. 

On the 13th the command moved out again, going eastward 
to strike the Mississippi Central Railroad. The Third U. S. Col- 
ored Cavalry having the advance, encountered the enemy in con- 
siderable force. Major Cook formed hfis men in an open field, and, 
after some skirmishing, charged them, but encountering a deep 
ravine or gully that he could not cross, the regiment was brought 
to an unexpected halt When within short range of the enemy. Con- 
ditions being equal, as neither party could come to close quarters, 
Major Cook quickly dismounted his men, who, taking advantage 
of such cover as the nature of the ground afforded, soon made 
the enemy's position untenable, and he withdrew from the fight. 
It was in this fight that Captain George C. Starr, Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, fell mortally wounded, shot through the stom- 
ach. He suffered intensely, as he had to be carried in the am- 
bulance the remainder of that and the next day, and died two 
days later in Yazoo City. His remains were taken back with the 
regiment to Vicksburg, and there placed in a burial case and 
taken to his relatives in Indianapolis, Indiana. Lieutenant Pet- 
t en gill accompanied the remains. Subsequently a brother officer 
performed the same sad duty with' the remains of Lieutenant Pet- 




Capt. A. J. HAYNES. 
Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 169 

tengill, who was killed in action about a year after. On reaching 
Vaughn Station, on the Mississippi Central Railroad, the station- 
house was burned by order of the general commanding. 

From Vaughn Station the command moved to attack a force 
that was guarding the bridge over Big Black river, but finding it 
impracticable to reach the 'bridge, on account of the swampy con- 
dition of the country, the command, after destroying some 
trestle-work and track, returned to Benton, thence to Vicksburg 
by way of Yazoo City, arriving at Vicksburg on the 18th, having 
marched over 200 miles, and fought the enemy almost daily. 



Report of Brigadier-General John McArthur, U. S. Army, 
commanding expedition from Vicksburg to Yazoo City, Miss., 
May 4-21, 1864, with skirmishes at Benton (7th and 9th), at 
Luce's Plantation (15) and at other points. 

Headquarters Post and Defenses, 

Vicksburg, Miss., May 25, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to 'submit the following report of 
the Yazoo expedition : 

In obedience to instructions from the Major-General command- 
ing the district, I left Vicksburg, Miss., on the morning of the 
d-th of May, in command of an expedition, consisting of the Forty- 
sixth and Seventy-sixth Infantry, Colonel Dornblaser command- 
ing ; the Eleventh, Seventy-second, and One-hundred and Twenty- 
fourth Illinois Infantry, Colonel Coates commanding ; Company L, 
Second Illinois Light Artillery, and the Seventh Ohio Battery, 
Captain Bolton, chief of artillery, commanding; First Kansas 
Mounted Infantry, detachments of the Fifth and Eleventh Illi- 
nois Cavalry, and Third U. S. Cavalry, African des- 
cent, Colonel Osband, Third U. S. Cavalry, African des- 
cent, commanding, and then proceeded in the direction 
of Messinger's Ford, thence northwest through Oak Ridge and 
Mechaniosburg, visiting Scott's Ferry, at Big Black, destroying 
the same, intercepting the wagon train of two regiments that had 
crossed to this side to reinforce the forces that were immediately 
on my front. I then started in the direction of Benton, having 



170 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

constant skirmishing, the cavalry, however, pushing the enemy 
sufficiently rapid that no delay was experienced until we reached 
Benton, where they made a stand, resisting the efforts of my cav- 
alry to dislodge them until the arrival of the infantry, when, after 
a short and spirited skirmish, they retreated, closely followed for 
six miles north of Benton. 

Seeing pursuit in that direction fruitless, I then returned to 
Benton. From information received from intercepted dispatches 
from General Adams, together with intelligence gained from other 
sources, I found that the enemy were concentrating' all their avail- 
able force on my front, and had already 'succeeded in crossing two 
more regiments, and that General Adams had arrived and assumed 
command, thereby accomplishing the principal object of the ex- 
pedition. I abandoned the idea (as communicated to you by way 
of Yazoo City) of crossing the Big Black and moving on Canton, 
and contented myself with destroying the ferry at Moor's Bluff 
and directing General Ellet, of the Mississippi Marine Brigade, to 
remain at Yazoo City, whither I sent my wagon train and sick and 
wounded, and awaited at Benton the completion of the "concerted 
measures" (see General Adams' dispatches) to drive us from the 
Yazoo. After waiting two days, and seeing no serious designs in 
carrying out their intention, I moved toward Vaughan's Station, 
on the Mississippi Central Railroad, the enemy contesting every 
advantageous position until we reached Luce's plantation, where 
they endeavored to test our strength, hut were soon driven from 
their position, my cavalry and artillery behaving handsomely and 
fighting keenly. Meeting with no more serious opposition we 
destroyed the railroad station at Vaughan's, following the road 
to Big Black, destroying the trestle-work in such a manner as 
will render it useless for some time to come, returning to Yazoo 
City, and thence by the valley road to Vioksburg, where we ar- 
rived on the morning of the 21st instant. 

Our loss in killed during the entire expedition was two com- 
missioned officer, 1 non-commissioned officer and 2 privates ; in 
wounded, 14 privates, (see surgeon's report accompanying this 
for names) , comparatively light with that of the enemy, who were 
severely punished wherever they attempted to stand. 

Results: A wholesome fear on the part of the enemy 
from painful experience, that we have sufficient force at 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 17i 

this point to move into the interior when desired, the 
effect of which will, in my opinion, be the withdrawal of their 
forces west of the Mississippi Central Railroad, if not of Pearl 
River; also compelling them to concentrate on my front at that 
time instead of sending them north as they might have 
done; the destruction of the railroad communication with 
Canton ; the vast advantage it haia been to the new recruits of the 
command, of which wie have a large portion, increasing 
their morale and giving them a prestige that cannot be over- 
estimated to troops first brought under fire. 

All of which is attributable to the commanding officers of 
brigades, and in fact throughout the whole command my thanks 
are due to all, as well as to my staff, for alacrity and spirit dis- 
played in the execution of every order, "Excelsior" seeming to 
be the motto of every portion of the command. 

I desire, before closing my report, to call attention to Brig- 
adier-General Ellet, commanding Marine Brigade, for his kind- 
ness and assistance in doing everything he could to make 1 the 
expedition successful. 

I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant, 

J. Mc Arthur. 

Brigadier-General. 
Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. Rogers, 
Assistant Adjutant-General, 
District of Vicksburg. 
(Rebellion Recoids, Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, p. 7-8.) 



Report of Col. Embury D. Osband, Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, of Skirmishes at and near Mechanicsburg. 

Headquarters Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Haynes Bluff, Miss., April 25, 1864. 

Captain : I have the honor to respectively report that pur- 
suant to orders. I moved at 6 a. m. on the morning of the 19th 
of April with one battalion. Tenth Missouri Cavalry. 90 men 
and 4 officers, Maj. W. H. Tusk commanding, and the Second 
Battalion, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 138 men and 12 officers, 
Maj. J- B. Cook commanding, on the Yazoo City road. Dividing 



172 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

my command to cover both ridge and valley iroad, I proceeded to 
within 7 miles of Mechanicsburg; returning to the column en- 
camped at the residence of Mr. Willday, on the valley road. 

Moving at daylight on the 20th, and accompanied by the 
First Kansas Mounted Infantry as far as Mechanicsburg, we 
moved toward Yazoo City, driving in our front about 50 of the 
enemy's skirmishers. The advance guard of the Tenth Missouri 
Cavalry, under Captain Cain, was exceedingly fine and worthy 
of special mention. 

About 9 miles beyond Mechanicsburg we captured 2 out of 
the 4 men posted as a picket, and learned that Mabry's brigade, 
formerly either Adams' or Stark'ts, was somewhere in our front 
with four pieces of artillery and 700 men. Halting in a little 
belt of timber for the infantry to close up we saw about 20 men 
in our front and dismounted two companies to flank them, when 
instantly the enemy appeared on our position with an ambushed 
battery of four pieces, distant about three-quarters of a mile, 
continuing a rapid fire for nearly an hour, during which time 
our dismounted companies rejoined the command. Having re- 
ceived an order from Colonel Scofield, commanding, I fell back 
as directed to a point near to, and so as to defend' the passage 
of the cross-road leading to Liverpool Heights. 

While holding this position the enemy, who had followed us, 
attempted to force ouir position held by the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, Maj. J. B. Cook commanding. Major Cook arranged 
an anbuscade for them behind a small ridge jutting out to the 
road. They advanced about one regiment strong in column, 
but on receiving the unexpected fire from the ridge they were 
thrown into confusion, and on being pushed by the charging 
party, a lieutenant and 12 men, all the well-mounted men there 
were in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, broke into fragments 
and were pursued fully one mile in the wildest confusion to the 
enemy's rear line of battle, who, mistaking them in the cloud 
of dust for our column, poured into them a volley of musketry. 

Their loss must have been severe, 5 dead, and many wounded 
men and horses being left upon the field. 

Holding our position undisturbed till 7 p. m. we moved by 
order in the rear of the infantry to Liverpool Heights. 

Leaving there at 12 :30 a. m. on the morning of April 23, 
we marched to Haynes' Bluff, undisturbed by the enemy. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 173 

I desire to particularly mention the conduct of Maj. William 
H. Lusk, Tenth Missouri Cavalry; Maj. J. B. Cook, Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry; Second Lieutenant Edwin Farley, C 
Company, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, who led the charge. 

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Commanding Third 

U. S. Colored Cavalry. 
Capt. W. H. Randall, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

(Rebellion Records.. Vol., XXXII, Part 1, p. 674-675.) 



Major-General S. A. Hurlbnt to Major-General J. B. McPherson. 

Headquarters Sixteenth Army Corps, 

Memphis, Tenu., April 10, 1864. 

Major-General J. B. McPherson, 

Commanding Deparment of the Tennessee. 

Extract. 

General : My view of the best mode of covering that wretched 
speculation, Government leased plantations, is to occupy Yazoo 
City with one regiment of white troops, two of colored infantry, 
and Osband's colored cavalry, with a good battery under a 
good officer. 

Osband's negro cavalry are good, and if properly armed they 
will handle Ross' brigade. They now require 700 carbines, 
which I have not to give them. With this force at Yazoo City, 
Grenada would not be tenable, except by heavy force, which 
cannot be spared. 

I am, General, your obedient servant, 
S. A. Hurlbut, 

Major-General. 

(Rebellion Records, Vol., XXXII, Part III. p. 317.) 



174 Third U S Colored Cavalry 



FIRST LIEUTENANT FREDERICK FERNAED. 

Was born in Gloucester County, State of Maine, September 
4, 1837. 

He enlisted at Racine, Wisconsin, September 4, 1861, in 
Company K, Eighth Wisconsin Infantry, the "Eagle Regiment," 
and was mustered into the service at Madison, Wis., September 
17, 1861, as a corporal. He served with his regiment during 
General Carlin's campaign against the rebel General Jeff Thomp- 
son in southeast Missouri, participating in the battle of Fred- 
ericktown, October 21, 1861, and the siege and capture of New 
Madrid and Island No. 10, March, 1862. His regiment joining 
the army under General Grant, he was with it during the ad- 
vance on Corinth, Miss., April 22<d to May 31st, including the 
battle of Farmington. He was with his regiment in the battle of 
Iuka, Miss., Sept. 19th and 20th, and in the battle of Corinth, 
October 3 and 4, 1862. He was with his regiment during the 
campaign in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi, in Nov- 
ember and December, 1862, and in the siege of Vicksburg, in- 
cluding the famous charge of May 22, and the battles of Ray- 
mond, Jackson and Champion Hills. 

He was discharged from the Eighth Wisconsin Infantry 
for promotion as Second Lieutenant in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, December 18, 1863, and assigned to Company F, pro- 
moted to First Lieutenant January 23, 1865, for meritorious 
conduct in action. He was mustered out of the service with 
the regiment, January 26, 1866, Lieutenant Fernald's promotion 
is a sufficient guarantee of his efficiency as an officer. He brought 
with him to the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry the valuable ex- 
perience acquired by two years of active field servioe in one of 
the most famous regiments in the entire union army. 

He was a splendid drill master, a strict disciplinarian, fear- 
less and conscientious in the discharge of every duty. He was con- 
spicuous in every battle, skirmish and campaign the regiment 
was engaged in. 

After the war, he settled on a farm in Iowa, where he pros- 
pered, and raised up an interesting family. 




FREDERICK FERNAI.D, 
1st I.ieut. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 176 

CHAPTER XIII. 

EXPEDITION TO JACKSON AND PEARL RIVER, 

July 2-10, L864. 

This expedition left Yicksburg July 2, 1864, and was com- 
posed of the following troops; detachments from the Fifth and 
Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, and Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry, the latter commanded by Major Cook, 
making a cavalry force of 600 men, commanded by Major Mum- 
ford, 5th Illinois Cavalry, an infanty force of 2,JU0, and Bol- 
ton's Battery ,six guns, commanded by Brigadier-General Den- 
nis, all under command of Major-General H. W. Slocum. The 
command moved out to Big Black river, where it camped on 
the night of July 2d. Crossing Big Black on th>e morning of 
the 3d, the command took up line of march toward Clinton, 
camping that night on the old battle ground of Champion Hills. 

Resuming the march on the morning of the 4th, the command 
reached Clinton about noon, near which place the enemy was 
encountered in small force, with whom there was some skirmish- 
ing with the advance guard. 

Leaving Clinton on the morning of the 5th, the command 
moved towards Jackson, the cavalry by one road and the infantry 
by another and a shorter route, the two roads forming a junction 
further on. At the junction of these roads, the Second Wiscon- 
sin Cavalry, having the advance, encountered the enemy in con- 
siderable force, with whom they had a sharp fight, suffering- 
some loss in killed and wounded. Here the infantry formed 
a junction with the cavalry, the whole command moving for- 
ward in one column, the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry in advance. 
When within 3 or 4 miles of Jackson, the enemy contested the 
ground stubbornly, when the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
Major Cook commanding, was ordered to the front. Major Cook 
deployed a line of skirmishers supporting it with a company on 
each flank, with orders to swing to the center in case the skir- 
mishers were pressed too hard, and following with the balance 
of the regiment, moving in platoon front, keeping the road. 

In this formation, he passed the advance line of the Eleventh 
Illinois Cavalry, and moved rapidly forward, meeting and re- 
pulsing a charge by the enemy's rear guard, about 200 strong, 



176 Third U >S. Colored Cavalry. 

and in turn charged them, rushing them back onto their main 
line, on account of the dust, Major Cook was only appraised of 
the close proximy of the main .body of the enemy when they 
opened fire on him with a six-gun battery at close range, not more 
than 400 yards, from which he was compelled to seek shelter 
with his men in the dry bed of a creek, where, dismounted, they 
fought the enemy for nearly an hour while the shot and slbell 
from Bolton's battery, on a hill in the rear, hissed through the 
air over the heads of himself and men, who were mid-way be- 
tween the lines. 

With the thunder of Bolton's guns, the rattle of musketry 
chimed in as the Forth-sixth Illinois Infantry came into action. 

The enemy had taken a strong position on a Mil, where they 
were partially screened by timber, and only yielded the ground 
after a stubborn fight of two hours duration, when they fell 
back, taking the Canton road, thus leaving the way open to Jack- 
son. After this encounter, the command marched into Jackson, 
unopposed, and camped for the night. 

On the afternoon of the 6th, thte command moved out about 
four miles, and camped for the night near the scene of the fight 
of the previous day. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry was 
thrown forward to picket the camp. Company B, Captain Emery 
commanding, occupied the most advanced position, where he 
was soon attacked, the 'enemy being in strong force. Major 
Cook hastened to the support of Captain Emery, whom be found 
gallantly holding his ground. Here the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry withstood the first shock of the battle that followed. 
The Fifth and Eleventh Illinois Cavalry and the Second Wis- 
consin Cavalry coming to the rescue, were soon engaged, when 
a desperate cavalry fight ensued. Bolton's Illinois Battery and 
the Forty-sixth Illinois Infantry participating. 

The enemy formed along the crest of the hill, which was par- 
tially encircled by a hedge-roe, behind which their movements 
were covered to some extent. Through the gap in the hedge- 
row, the enemy 'made repeated charges, showing great bravery 
and dash, the leader of the last charge they made, a gallant officer, 
fell little short of our line of battle. 

The isun sank below the western horizon, her last flickering 
rays casting ghostly shadows over the bloody field ; twilight faded, 




JOSEPH SEDGWICK, 
Quartermaster Sergt. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 177 

deepening into the gloom of night, before the firing wholly ceased, 
when the combatants, exhausted, threw themselves on the ground, 
sleeping on their arms. 

On the morning of the 7th, with.! the first indication of day, the 
battle was renewed with increased fury, charge followed charge 
with a boldness and determination on 'both sides that showed the 
discipline of trained troops. The thunder of artillery, answering 
shot for ishot from commanding positions, mingled with the con- 
tinuous rattle of small arms was unceasing for three hours, the 
tide of battle alternating as position after position was lost or 
won, when at last the enemy, in a desperate charge to regain a 
lost position, being repulsed with great loss, contented themselves 
with assuming the defensive, and the Union forces, being much 
exhausted and short of ammunition, slowly retired, moving to- 
ward Vicksburg, the enemy making but a feeble attempt to follow. 

It was during the fight of the 5th, near Jackson, that Orderly 
Sergeant Joseph Sedgwick, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, was 
killed, a fragment of one of the enemy's shells striking him on 
the head, killing him instantly. He was a very promising young 
officer, and had been recommended for promotion as Second Lieu- 
tenant. He had served two years in the 124th Illinois Infantry, 
and had been transferred to the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry for 
promotion. He was hastly 'buried where he fell. 

During this expedition, tih)e regiment suffered a loss of one 
officer and 7 enlisted men killed, and 10 enlisted men wounded. 



report of maj. gen. henry w. slocum, u. s. army, command- 
ing district oe vicksburg. 

Headquarters District of Vicksburg, 

Vicksburg, Miss., July 10, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to report that on the 2nd of July 
I left here with 2,200 infantrv, 600 cavalry, and six pieces of ar- 
tillery, for the purpose of destroying the bridge over Pearl river. 
We had slight skirmishing on our advance, but reached Jackson 
with the loss of but 2 officers and 8 men. I destroyed the bridge 
which I think was designed mierteily for temporary use, probably 
for the purpose of transferring the rolling-stojk from the Miss- 



178 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

issippi Central Railroad to their eastern roads. While I was in 
Jackson the enemy took position on the road leading to Clinton, 
about three miles from Jackson. I attacked them at 4 a. m. on 
the 7th instant, and after an engagement of two hours' duration 
foroed him back, and moved on toward Clinton. I could not fol- 
low thlem, having only sufficient supplies to last my command till 
it could reach Big Black River. 

My losses are about 230 in killed and wounded and 20 missing. 
No property of any kind was lost or abandoned. 

The forces of tine enemy consisted of a 'brigade under Ghol- 
son, a force from Louisiana under Colonel Scott, and a few men 
under General Wirt Adams. I was informed that a regiment 
under Colonel (or General) Richardson was also present and 
took part in the engagement. 

The officers and men of my command, without exception, be- 
haved in a manner entitling them to the highest praise. 

I shall leave here to-morrow with a force nearly the same, and 
attempt to reach! Canton, hoping thereby to prevent their detach- 
ments from being sent to Forrest. I will send a report more in 
detail at a very early day. 

I am, Colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

H. W. Slocum, 
Major-General, Commanding. 
Lieutenant-Col. W. T. Clark, 
A ssistan t A dju tant-General, 

Department of the Tennessee.. 
(R R. Vol. XXXII, Part 1, p. 242.) 



FIRST LIEUTENANT D. E. POTTER. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Fort Ann, Washington 
County, State of New York, November 20, 1836. He enlisted in 
Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, August 24. 1861. The reg- 
iment was ordered to Cairo in November following, when the 
company was assigned to duty as General Grant's escort; acting 
as such until after the fall of Vicksburg. General Grant having 
been assigned to a higher command in the East, left his escort 
at Vicksburg. 

As a member of the escort, always near General Grant, he 




D. E. POTTER, 
1st Ueut. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 179 

carried dispatches to corps and Division commanders on every 
battle field from Fort Do nelson to Vicksburg. Early in the war 
he was promoted to Corporal. He was discharged from Company 
A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, July 11, 1863, for promotion as Cap- 
tain in the Fiftieth U. S. Colored Infantry, which position he re- 
signed August 9, 1864, to accept a position as Second Lieutenant 
in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, and was promoted to First 
Lieutenant July 22, 1865. He commanded his company, D, on the 
Grierson raid from Memphis to Vicksburg, December and Jan- 
uary 1864-5, taking part in the battle of Egypt Station and Frank- 
lin, Miss., December 28th and January 2. 

He was successively detailed as regimental Adjutant and as 
Assistant Adjutant-General, Third Brigade, Cavalry Division, Dis- 
trict of West Tennessee, and was later detailed September 13, 
1865, as Superintendent of President's Island, by special order 
of Major-General Smith. 

He was mustered out with the regiment at Memphis, Tenn., 
January 26, 1866. Evidently General Grant had in his mind such 
men of his escort as Lieutenant Potter, when writing his report 
to the War Department July 6, 1863, he said: "It would not be 
overstating the merits of this company to say that many of 
them would fill with credit any position in a Cavalry regiment." 



CHAPTER XIV. 

GRAND GULF EXPEDITION, JULY llTH TO 20TH, 1864. 
THE FIGHT AT GRAND GULF, JULY 16TH, 1864. 

Relative to the fight at Grand Gulf, Lieutenant-Colonel J. B. 
Cook, commanding Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, says: 

"This expedition composed of cavalry and infantry, Major- 
General Slocum commanding, left Vicksburg July 11th, 1864, 
marched via Black river, Edwards Station, Rocky Springs and 
Port Gibson, with almost continuous skirmishing. On the 16th, 
the command camped for the night at Grand Gulf. My regiment 
the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, was thrown forward to picket 
the roads. I posted one company on the Grand Gulf and Port 
Gibson road, on a hill about half a mile from my camp, and about 
two miles from the main command. 



180 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

At early daybreak the next morning niy picket on the Grand 
Gulf and Port Gibson road was attacked. At the call "to arms," 
my men were quickly in line, and we moved out, dismounted, dou- 
ble quick, to support tlite picket, as we had to go up a steep hill 
my men were nearly out of breath when we reached the scene of 
action. My reserve picket was making a determined stand. I 
left one company to re-in force them, and moved to the left with 
the balance of the regiment, going through a ravine, which 
brought me out on the enemy's flank and within a few yards of 
their line of battle, when bringing my men front into line, we 
gave them a volley with our carbines, and dashed forward, fir- 
ing with revolvers, at which the enemy broke in confusion, scat- 
tering through the brush and gullies. We pushed on for some dis- 
tance, tout meeting no opposition, returned to our camp. On our 
way back, I came upon two men of my regiment, who had a pris- 
oner in their charge, who told me he was t)h!a officer in command 
of the forces that had attacked us, and introduced himself as 
Major E. A. Peyton. 

r " of the men bad his sabre and belt, which I took possess- 
ion of. It was a common cavalry sabre. I have it yet. 

Major Peyton was captured by Lieutenant Farley and his men, 
who charged from the picket post, while I enlarged on their flank. 

I conducted Major Peyton to General S locum 's headquarters, 
and introduced him to the general, who, extending his hand, said, 
"Major Peyton, I am very glad to meet you," to which greeting 
Major Peyton replied," I regret very much General that I cannot 
say the same to you." 

Two days prior to the capture of Major Peyton, the enemy 
captured one of our officers, Major ShJorey, of the First Mississ- 
ippi Mounted Rifles. Subsequently Major Peyton was exchanged 
for Major S'horey, the exchange being conducted by Major Mc- 
Kee, Eleventh Illinois Infantry, on the picket lines at Vicksburg. 
Major McKee being then Provost Marshall of that post. 

Major Peyton was a veteran of the Mexican war, serving 
under Colonel Jefferson Davis. After the war Major Peyton re- 
sided at Satartia, Miss., where he became prominent as a repub- 
lican, and was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of that 
State. 

Major McKee, who conducted the exchange of prisoners, set- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 181 

tied in Mississippi after the war, locating at Jackson, which dis- 
trict h'e represented in the U. S. Congress. 

In the fight at Grand Gulf, the enemy lost, in prisoners, their 
commanding officer, Major Peyton, and eight enlisted men, and 
in killed, five enlisted men. 



THE GRAND GULF EXPEDITION. 

Of this expedition and the fight at Grand Gulf, Lieutenant E. 
Farley, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, says: 

This expedition was composed of the following troops : First 
brigade, Second New Jersey Cavalry, Nineteenth Pennsylvania 
cavalry and First Mississippi Mounted Rifles, commanded by Col- 
onel Joseph Karge, Colonel Second New Jersey Cavalry, Third 
Brigade, Fifth Illinois Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, and 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, commanded by Major H. P. Mum- 
ford, Major Fifth Illinois Cavalry, all under command of Brig- 
adier-General A. W. Ellet, Mississippi Marine brigade. In ad- 
dition, Major-General Slocum, with an infantry force of 2,000 
men, moved down the river by boat, flanking the cavalry force. 

The cavalry force left Vicksburg on the morning of July 11th, 
1864, crossed Black River, and proceeded in the direction of Ed- 
wards Station, which place was reached on the 12th. Froni Ed- 
wards Station the command took a more southerly course, meet- 
ing with considerable resistance during the day, and camped 
near Utica on the night of the 13th. When near Utica, the First 
Mississippi Mounted Rifles, Major Shorey commanding, being 
temporarily separated from the main command, was attacked by 
a superior force of the enemy, and after making a gallant fight 
against overwhelming odds, Major Shorey and quite a number 
of Ms men were captured by the enemy, and several of them 
killed. 

On the 14th the command marched to Port Gibson, where it 
camped that night. Befone going into camp, two companies of 
the Second New Jersey Cavalry, were sent out to procure forage 
for the horses, when they were attacked, and in the fight that en- 
sued, 25 or 30 of them were taken prisoners, and several wound- 
ed. Leaving Port Gibson on the 15th, the command marched to 



182 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Grand Gulf, where Generals S locum and Ellet were waiting with 
the boats. 

The command went into camp along the Grand Gulf and Port 
Gibson road. This road ran along the crest of a ridge, which 
curved inland as it left the river, nearly forming a semi-circle for 
two miles or more. Other and smaller ridges intersected it at 
irregular intervals on both sides of the road. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry having marched in the rear 
of the command that day, occupied a position, when camped,, 
farfiherest out on the road, and was assigned the duty of picket- 
ing that road, one company being detailed for this duty. 

This company was posted half a mile from our camp, in a 
strong position, with vedetts well thrown out. Nothing occurred 
to break the stillness that pervaded thle camp until about daylight, 
when our picket on the road above mentioned was savagely at- 
tacked, the firing at the reserve post being by volley and con- 
tinuous, indicated that the attack was being made in force. 

The regiment was soon under arms and moving out, double 
quick, toward the scene of action. My company was camped on 
the right of the regiment and fartherest from the scene of action, 
the regiment being stretched out along the road. I heard Colonel 
Cook give the older to turn out dismounted, double-quick, and 
though I got my men into line very quickly, the balance of the 
regiment, led by Colonel Cook, preceded me. Colonel Cook, with 
several companies, all, I think, except mine, went to the left of 
the road, going through a ravine which ran parallel with the road. 
I kept the road to near where the reserve picket was stationed, 
when I filed to the right, following one of the small ridges that 
intersected the one the picket was posted on. 

The enemy, who proved to be therSeventh Mississippi Mounted 
Infantry, commanded by Major E. A. Peyton, evidently saw the 
flank movement of Colonel Cook, and wisely avoided him by 
moving to the southwest side of the road, some retiring in seem- 
ing confusion, but a small force led by Major Peyton in person, 
and on foot, appeared on another ridge directly in my front and 
about 200 yards distant, coming towards us with a yell. Seeing 
Colonel Cook approadh'ing on the flank with the balance of the 
regiment, I dashed forward to meet the charge of Peyton, be- 
lieving that he would not be able to hold his men, menaced as he 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 2£5 

was in front and flank. As anticipated Major Peyton's men brd 
before we came to close quarters, though the Major was gallant- 
ly urging them on, and finding himself entirely deserted he came 
forward and surrendered. All of this occurred in a few minutes 
and under considerable: excitement. I placed Major Peyton in 
drarge of a Sergeant and one man while I pursued the retreating 
and scattered enemy. 

Wihen Major Peyton came toward me to surrender, one of 
my men, misconstruing the movement, leveled his carbine and 
would have killed him had I not noticed it and interposed. I 
have never met Major Peyton since placing him in charge of 
the two men. I received a kind letter from him years ago, writ- 
ten from Satartia, Miss., in which he says he has not forgotten the 
incident, and expresses profound gratitude. 

Hie informed me that General Adams ordered him to make a 
night ride, find our camp, attack us in the morning and ascertain 
our strength and report same to him. He says he carried out 
instructions to the letter, except that he did not report. 

We embarked on the boats of the Marine Brigade on the 7th, 
and returned to Vicksburg, reaching there the next day. 



CHAPTER XV 



Expedition from vicksburg to natchez, fort adams and wood- 

VILLE — SEPTEMBER 21 ST TO OCTOBER llTH, 1864. — THE 
CAPTURE OF HOLMES' LOUISIANA BATTERY BY SABRE CHARGE. 

Relative to the capture of Holmes' Battery, Lieutenant-Col- 
onel J. B. Cook says: "On the night of October 5th, 1864, my 
regiment, the Third U. S. Colored Calvary, camped about a half 
mile south of Woodville, Miss. 

About daybreak the next morning, my regiment being in read- 
iness to move, Colonel Osband stated to me that he had received 
information that a force of the enemy were on the plantation of 
Judge McGehee, distant about a mile and a half where they had 
taken position during the night, with the intention of attack- 
ing us at daylight; that the force consisted of Colonel Gober's 
Mississippi Cavalry, and Holmes' Louisiana Battery, three guns, 



182 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Gd in addition, they were expecting to be re-in forced by two 
regiments of Louisiana Cavalry, commanded by Colonel Scott. 

With this information in his possession, Colonel Osband pro- 
posed to be the attacking party himself, and made the following 
disposition of his forces for the attack : I was to move to the left 
with my regiment, make a flank or rear attack on the enemy, the 
Fifth Illinois Cavalry and one section of the Second Illinois Light 
Artillery co-operating with me, while Colonel Gslband, with the 
balance of the command, would move to the right. Colonel Os- 
band furnished me with a guide, a colored man, who seemed to 
be well posted as to the position of the enemy and the roads. I 
moved out on the Liberty road, but left it about half a mile east 
of Woodville, turning .south, and going through a large planta- 
tion, parallel with the Bayou Sara road and about half a mile east 
of it. 

We were galloping over an open stretch* of ground, when, com- 
ing in view of a cluster of trees, the guide, pointing to it ,said, 
"the battery is there," and almost simultaneously the battery 
opened fire on us, the shot, however, going over us. At the same 
time the battery opened fire a line of mounted skirmishers ad- 
vanced from the edge of the timber, which I took to indicate the 
position of Gober's Cavalry, who were evidently supporting the 
battery. At this time the Section of the Second Illinois Light Ar- 
tillery, Lieutenant Piatt commanding, came into position in my 
rear, and opened fire on the enemy, the Fifth Illinois Cavalry 
supporting the battery. 

I diverged slightly to the left to get out of range of our bat- 
tery, and moved forward at a gallop, when the line of mounted 
skirmishers fell back into the timlber. At this point my progress 
was checked by a deep ravine, to cross which it was necessary to 
pass over a rickety 'bridge in column of twos ; this bridge was 
made of loose poles, and the slow process of crossing over it, 
offered the enemy an opportunity which they failed to take ad- 
vantage of. Effecting the crossing without loss other than the 
time consumed, we charged over the intervening ground, and as 
we entered the timber, the enemy, after delivering a volley, fell 
back. It was here that several horses were shot down in the front 
rank of Captain Edland's company, which checked the company 
temporarily. From this point I moved on with the balance of the 
command, taking a road that diverged more to my left. As we 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 185 

advanced at a steady gallop, Gober's cavalry scattered, some on 
one side of the road and some on the other. I made no effort to 
take prisoners, my object now being to reach the battery. My 
guide led me past Judge McGehee's place, thence north until we 
came to the guns, which Ifoad already surrendered. 

I found Captain Edland and Lieutenant Chapin engaged in 
getting the prisoners otu of a ravine, when I reached the guns. 
After leaving Captain Edland and Lieutenant Chapin at the point 
where the horses were shot, I did not see them again until I found 
them where they were getting the prisoners out of the ravine. 



THE FIGHT NEAR WOODVILLE, MISS. 

Capture of Holmes' Louisiana Battery, October 6, 1864. 

In reference to the capture of the above named battery. Lieu- 
tenant Farley, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, makes the following 
statement : 

"Our brigade, composed of detachments from the Second Wis- 
consin Cavalry, 4th, 5th, and 11th Illinois Cavalry, and Third U. 
S. Colored Cavalry, one Section of the 26th Ohio Battery, and 
one Section of the Second Illinois Lightt Artillery, in all about 
1,250 men, Colonel E. D. Osband commanding, took boats at 
Natchez, Miss., on October 4, 1864, and proceeded down the 
river to Tunica Bend, where we were to disembark and proceed 
inland in the direction of Woodville, Miss. We were to co- 
operate with other troops sent out at the same time, one column 
overland from Natchez, and another from Morganza, further 
down the river, the object being to harass the enemy, break up 
their recruiting camps and capture stock and supplies. 

We disembarked at the point designated, on the morning of 
the 5th, and took up line of march toward Woodville, which is 
18 miles east from Fort Adams, the Fifth Illinois Cavalry in ad- 
vance, but hearing firing to our right and thinking the expe- 
dition from down the river was attacked we veered to the right, 
going about ten miles in the direction of Sligo, when the firing 
ceased. We then resumed the direct march to Woodville, reach- 
ing that place late in the evening. The Fifth' Illinois Cavalry 
dashed into the town, procuring the mail, seizing the telegraph 



180 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

office, and taking a few prisoners. We went into camp for the 
night a short distance south of the town, on the Woodville and 
Sligo road, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry on the extreme left 
of the brigade. During the night a negro cam<e into our camp, 
imparting the information that a large force of the enemy, com- 
posed of cavalry and artillery, commanded by Colonel Gobeir, had 
just reached the plantation of Judge McGehee, three and a half 
miles south of Woodville, on the Woodville and Bayou Sara road 
and that they intended to attack us at daylight the next morning. 

He also said that they expected to be reinforced by two reg- 
iments of Louisiana cavalry, commanded, by Colonel Scott. 

On receipt of this information, Colonel Osband gave orders 
to be ready to move at daybreak. The eastern horizon gave no 
indications yet of the approach of the new day when the command 
was in the saddle. 

The following disposition of the troops was made for the at- 
tack: The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 
and the Section of the Second Illinois Light Artillery were sent 
to attack the enemy on the left flank and rear, the Third LT. S. 
Colored Cavalry, Major Cook commanding, taking the advance, 
while the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, 
and the Section of the 26th Ohio Battery, commanded by Col- 
onel Osband in person, moved on the enemy's right flank. 

Major Cook, leading the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, moved 
rapidly, crossing to the east side of the Bayou Sara road, where) 
he entered an old field north of the McGehee house. This field 
was iseparated from the enemy's position by a ravine extending 
east and west. There was a bridge on the Bayou Sara road 
crossing thits ravine, and another small bridge for plantation use, 
crossing it in the field before mentioned. 

The enemy's position was on the elevated ground just south 
of the ravine, their left resting on or a little west of the bridge 
on the Bayou Sara road, and their right extending east till about 
opposite the plantation bridge in the field, their artillery being- 
close to the Bayou Sara road and about 200 or 300 yards south of 
the bridge. 

Their position was an excellent one, especially so as they 
were protected and hidden from view by a growth of trees and 
under4>rush. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 1S7 

Major Cook had a negro guide with him, who on entering 
the field showed him the plantation bridge, when the Major di- 
rected me, who was near him, to move rapidly wifht my company, 
dash across the bridge if possible, and 'be governed by circum- 
stances after crossing. I galloped forward with my company, 
crossed the bridge, entered the timber and swung around the 
enemy's right flank, striking the Bayou Sara road about 300 
yards in his rear. I was about to continue through an old field 
west of the road, when a man whom I left at the road for a 
moment, called me to come back, which I did by head of column 
right about, without slackening pace, and discovered the enemy 
trying to escape with their three pieces of artillery. I formed line 
at once, and as they were about to train their guns on me, I 
charged them with sabres and drove the gunners, drivers and all, 
from their guns and horses, all running in a northerly direction 
and right on to the Fifth Illinois Cavalry, which regiment was 
pressing them in front, and who captured them. 

Captain Edland very isoon came charging through the woods 
from the direction of the enemy's right flank and while I was 
still confronting some of Gober's cavalry, reached the guns which 
I had just passed. Major Cook soon joined us at the guns, with 
the balance of the regiment. 

I think Captain Edland escorted the guns from the field. It 
was a quick victory won by well directed dash and sharp fight- 
ing. 

The force that went to the right, under Colonel Osband, en- 
countered a small body of the enemy a few miles to the south, 
and quickly scattered it. After this fight, the command moved 
towards Fort Adams, and camped that night within a few miles 
of the last named place. On the morning of the 7th, the command 
marched hack towards Woodville, ibut finding no enemy within 
striking distance, the column was headed in the direction of 
Natchez, where it arrived on the evening of the 8th. 

There was a great deal of property captured, and between 
50 and 60 prisoners taken, including Captain Holmes and the 
members of his battery, all of which were turned over to Colonel 
Kent, 29th Illinois Infantry, at Fort Adams, who took them to 
Natchez on the boat. ( See reports of Gen. Dana, Cols. Osband 
and Kent, of the Federal Army, and Gen. Hodge and Col. Gober, 



188 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

of the Confederate Army in Records of War of rebellion, Serial 
No. 77.) 



Report of Col. Embury D. Osband, Third U. S. Colored Cav- 
alry, Commanding Cavalry Forces. 

Headquarters Cavalry Forces, 
Vicksburg, Miss., September 26, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to report that in pursuance of 
orders from district headquarters I moved the Third U. S. Col- 
ored Cavalry, 330 men, Major J. B. Cook commanding, at day- 
light on the 21st instant, to Haymeis' Bluff", at which place they 
crossed the Yazoo River by the steamer White Cloud, marching 
12 miles and encamping on the Hill place. 

On the 22nd Major Cook attacked the commands of Bradford 
and Montgomery, about 150 strong, near Rolling Fork, and suc- 
ceeded in driving them. He pursued them fifteen miles, when 
they crossed Sunflower river. He encamped at their camp on 
the Helen Johnson place. At 3 a. in. on the 23d instant he burned 
all the tenements, out-houses, stabling, gin-houses, etc. upon the 
premises, as ordered by district headquarters, destroying a large 
amount of ammunition, arms, and subsistence stores, hidden on 
the place. 

About mid-day of the 23d he met Captain Sutton, commissary 
of subsistence C. S. Army, with twelve men, driving 300 head of 
cattle branded C. S. purchased for the use of the Confederate 
army. He killed 8 of the escort, and succeeded in taking the cap- 
tain and 4 men prisoners. 

Owing to the dense canebrake he was enabled to reach Egg 
Point with only about 200 of the cattle, which were turned over to 
Lieuenant-Colonel Sturdevant, chief commissary of subsistence, at 
this place as ordered. He also captured 18 horses and 19 mules, as 
appears by inclosed memorandum receipts, marked A. 

On the 24th the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry met the Fifth 
Illinois Cavalry at William F. Smith's place, and with them pro- 
ceeded to Vicksburg by steamer. The detachment of the Fifth 
Illinois Cavalry, 350 men, commanded by Major H. P. Mumford, 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 189 

accompanied by me, proceeded on the night of the 21st by steamer 
B. J. Adams and barge to Bolivar Landing, reaching that place 
on the morning of the 23d at 9 a. m. Disembarking immediately, 
the command moved in the direction of Deer Greek, met no force 
of the enemy, but learned that a battery of artillery, supported by 
infantry and cavalry, was stationed at a point a few miles above, 
with intentions to fire upon transports. 

Proceeding through the country, capturing 13 mules and 9 
horses, as per memorandum receipts marked B., they succeeded 
in taking 3 of the enemy's most important scouts. Met the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry on the 24th at the Smith place. Returning 
to the river, which the command reached on the 26th, I imme- 
diately embarked, and reached this place at 4 p. m. 26th. 

The result of the expedition may be summed up as follows: 
No losses upon our part. We had positive information of a loss 
of 15 killed on the rebel side, and 1 captain and 8 men taken pris- 
oners. A list of their names is appended, marked C. We cap- 
tured 27 horses, 32 mules, and about 200 cattle, as per memo- 
randum receipts A. and B. 

I found the inhabitants anxious for peace and willing to ac- 
cept it under Federal rule. The State authorities are organizing 
the exempts under the militia law of the State, the Boliver county 
militia having already served the term of thirty days. The Wash- 
ington County militia was to be organized on the 24th had not 
my forces been in the neighborhood. 

The Issaquena County militia has not been ordered out, but 
will probably be as soon as the Washington County militia have 
served their term of thirty days. 

Large amounts of corn has been raised by the planters on 
the entire routes of the expedition, and also a large quantity of 
cotton, the number of bales raised varying from 30 to 200 per 
plantation. 

The Yazoo Swamps, under which term this part of the State 
of Mississippi is known, cannot be held except by at least 500 
cavalry and would /respectfully recommend that no supplies be 
landed to any one on the east side of the Mississippi, below Yazoo 



190 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Pass, because tbey either give voluntarily, or have taken from 
them by force, at least one half of all such supplies landed. 
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Forces. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, Reports, pp. 571-2.; 



Report of Col. Embury D. Osband, Tihird U S. Colored Cav- 
alry, Commanding expedition to Woodville. 

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY FORCES, 

Vicksburg, Miss October 12, 1864. 

Captain: — Pursuant to orders from the major-general co;\: • 
manding, I left Natchez, Miss, on the 4th day of October, at 6 
p. nn. on transports provided, with 'detachments of the Fifth Illi- 
ncis Cavalry, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, 
Second Wisconsin Cavalry, and Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
one section Twenty-sixth Ohio Battery and one section of Com- 
pany K, Second Illinois Light Artillery, and a detachment of 
the signal corps, in all amounting to 1,200 mien. I landed at Tu- 
nica Bend, La., at 4 a. m. on the 5th instant, and immediately 
marched in the direction of Woodville, Miss. When ten miles 
from Woodville, hearing heavy firing in the direction of Bayou 
Sara, I proceeded toward that point as far as Sligo, but there, 
finding that the firing receded faster than we advanced, I moved 
toward Woodville, and after surrounding the town, charged with 
two regiments, completely surprising the rebels and capturing 
12 prisoners, 1 caisson, 12 army wagons with team's, etc. The 
Fifth Illinois Cavalry secured almost a'll of the above captures. 
Leaving a strong provost guard to search the town I moved, after 
destroying the telegraph and capturing the mail, half a mile south 
of the village and encamped the command. 

At daylight I forwarded all prisoners and captured property 
to Fort Adams to meet the boats, and prepared to march. Hear- 
ing at this time of the position of a rebel force upon my right 
flank about one mile and a half distant, I immediately sent the 
Fifth Illinois Cavalry, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry and the sec- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. lyi 

tion of Company K, Second Illinois Light Artillery, to the left, 
and moved with the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry and Second Wis- 
consin Cavalry, and the section of the Twenty-sixth Ohio Bat- 
tery to the right. The column sent to the left moved rapidly, the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry in advance, and met a severe fire 
from Gober's Cava'lry as the command rose the hill in rear of 
the rebel position. The artillery of the column, Fifth Illinois 
Cavalry supporting, opened at about 1,000 yards range, and did 
fine execution. Major J. B. Cook, with Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, pushing rapidly to the rear, stampeded Gober's command, 
and gained the rear of the battery, when, forming line of battle, 
be charged through the woods, one battalion with revolver and 
one' with saber, cutting down the rebels, who were now deserting 
the battery, driving the gunners from and capturing the guns. 

The batteryman rushing forward were secured as prisoners 
of war by the Fifth Illinois Cavalry, who were in line immediately 
in front. In the 'meantime the other column was met with stub- 
born resistance at the point Where the railroad meets the iroad, 
and by the delay caused in dislodging this force only reached the 
scene of action in time to assist in securing the prisoners, who 
had scattered through the woods. 

The results of this half-hour's work were one 12-pound how- 
itzer, two 6-pound smooth-bore guns, 150 rounds of fixed am- 
munition, horses and harness complete, 3 battle-flags, 41 prisoners, 
and 40 of the enemy killed. Our loss was nothing. 

The fight occurred near the residence of Judge McGehee, who 
had breakfast cooked for the rebels. Our men ate the breakfast 
without difficulty, and giving Judge McGehee half an hour to 
move out of his residence, burned it, together with 1 the quarters 
he had erected for the use of the rebels. I now sent one company 
of the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Captain Bentley commanding, 
to the right of our position about one mile, wfien he succeeded in 
stampeding one company of rebel cavalry. He found and de- 
stroyed 35 saddles and 35 stand of arms. I also caused to be 
burned at Woodville about $100,000 worth of commissary stores, 
C. S. Army, consisting of salt, sugar, flour, tobacco and cotton 
cloth. I now moved rapidly to a point four miles from Fort 
Adams, sending captured property to the boats at that point in 
waiting. Here at the juncture of these roads the advance (Third 



192 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

U. S. Colored Cavalry) found and drove some two miles a small 
party of rebels. Our loss was two wounded slightly. During the 
night I learned that we had met Powers' regiment, 200 strong. 
Before daylight, in attempting to surround them, our plan was 
accidently discovered and frustrated. The Fourth Illinois Cav- 
alry had one man wounded, who afterward died. 

Expecting to meet Scott's command and the combined rebel 
force at Woodville, I marched at 8 a. m. for that point, but 
found no emeimy within twenty miles. Encamped on Buffalo 
Creek. Marched next morning at daylight, and meeting Colonel 
Farrar at Kingston reached Natchez at 4 p. m. 

I regret to add that that gallant officer, Lieut. Col. Otto Funk 
commanding Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, while marching in col- 
umn on this side of Woodville was painfully but not dangerously 
wounded by some bushwhackers concealed in the thick brush. 

Embarking on transports the afternoon of the 9th I reached 
camp at Vicksburg the afternoon of the 11th instant. 

I learned at Woodville that in the skirmish with Powers' 
regiment the enemy lost their commanding officer, Major 
McKowen, and 8 killed. 



A SUMMARY OF THE TWELVE DAYS SCOUT. 

The command embarked and disembarked twice, traveled by 
river 175 miles, and marched by land 260 miles. They lost no 
material, had only 2 men killed and 1 officer and 5 men slightly 
wounded. 

The enemy's loss in killed is Major McKowen, commanding 
Powers' regiment, C. S. Army, and Lieutenant Dodds, secret 
scout, C. S. Army, and 54 enlisted men; and by capture, 4 
commissioned officers (Captain Holmes, the leader of the expe- 
dition, which recaptured the Chesapeake), the lieutenant and 
post commissary of subsistance at Woodville, a son of Gen- 
eral Liddell, and an acting assistant surgeon, C. S. Army, and 
82 enlisted men. 

The command captured 3 pieces of cannon, 1 caisson, 350 
rounds ammunition, harness, etc., 1,000 head of beef-cattle, 300 
sheep, and between 300 and 400 honses and mules, 12 army 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 193 

wagons, etc. ; destroyed about 350 stand of small-arms, $100,000 
worth of subsistence stores, the telegraph station at Woodville, 
and a large portion of the line, the printing office at Woodville, 
and secured a large amount of information througfht captured 
dispatches, and otherwise valuable to the Government, and also 
gained 175 able-bodied colored recruits. The command returned 
in good health, and with a few clays' rest are ready for another 
raid on the enemy. 

I .stated in a former report that I desired to prefer charges 
against Lieutenant Earl, commanding Major-General Canby's 
scouts ; while I do not desire to again have him under my com- 
mand, his gallant action in re-capturing the flags of our armies 
and sealed dispatches at Saint Joseph leads me to believe he is a 
valuable agent of the Government, and I would most respectfully 
decline to prosecute him for what I thought unofficial conduct. 
Respectfully submitted, 
E. D. Osband, 
Colonel Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 
Capt. F. W. Fox, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 
Rebellion Records, Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 831-2-3. 



Report of Major-General N. J. Dana, U. S. Army, command- 
ing District of Vicksburg, including operations to October 11. 

Headquarters District of Vicksburg, 

Vicksburg, Miss., October 13, 1864. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to submit the following summary 
of recent active operations in this district, comprising a series of 
scouts or raids into the enemy's lines from Bolivar, on the Yazoo, 
to Tunica Bend, on the Mississippi (east side), a distance of 500 
miles, and covering the period from 21st of September, the time 
of original departure from Vicksburg, to 11th of October, when 
the forces that were out on expedition returned to their camps 
The cavalry forces which accomplished these operations were 
able to muster at the time of my assuming command here in 
the middle of August last only about 300 men effective for field 
service, but they moved in the recent expedition 1,100 strong. 



194 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

On the 21st of September Col. E. D. Osband, Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, commanding cavalry forces at this post, went 
out under my direction with detachments from his command, 
disposing of them as follows: 

The battalion of Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 330 strong, 
commanded by Maj. J. B. Cook, to march from here, with one 
piece of artillery, cross the Yazoo near Haynes Bluff, and beat 
up the country on Deer Creek as far as Egg Point. On the 
evening of the same day a battalion of the Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 
commanded by Maj H. P. Mumford, to embark from here, with 
orders to land at Bolivar, about 200 miles above here, and move 
down Deer Creek to meet the first detachment at Egg Point. 
These movements were made as desired, and the expedition was 
successful. On the 22d, Cook attacked the commands of Bradford 
and Montgomery, numbering 150 men, near Rolling Fork, routed 
and pursued them for fifteen miles, till they crossed the Sun- 
flower. 

He occupied their camp at the Helen Johnson place ; found 
there a large quantity of ammunition, some arms, and subsistence 
stores, and as they were concealed in the houses be burned the 
whole establishment. 

On the 23d he met Captain Sutton, a rebel commissary, with 
twelve men, driving 300 head of cattle branded C. S. He killed 
eight of the escort and captured the captain and the remaining 
four men, with the cattle. 

Owing to the dense canebrake he succeeded in bringing 
home only 200 of the cattle. The expedition arrived here from 
Egg Point on the night of the 26th, bringing 27 horses, 32 mules, 
and 200 head of cattle ; also one captain and eight men as 
prisoners. The loss of the enemy was 15 killed; no loss on our 
side. 

On the nigh't of the 29th of September the cavalry forces were 
again embarked, and left here to operate in the vicinity of Port 
Gibson, Miss. 

The command numbered about 1,100 men, under Colonel 
Osband, and was composed of detachments from the following 
regiments, viz. : Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Fifth Illinois Cav- 
alry, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
detachment with four guns from Twenty-sixth Ohio Battery 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 195 

Light Artillery, and detachment of signal corps. At the same 
time an infantry force was embarked, under command of Col. 
Charles A. Gilchrist, Fiftieth U. S. Colored Infantry, 525 strong, 
and composed of detachments from various- regiments, as follows: 
300 men from Fiftieth U. S. Colored Infantry, 200 men from 
Forty-eighth U. S. Colored Infantry, 25 men from Fifth U. S. 
Colored Infantry, with two pieces of artillery. Colonel Osband 
debarked at Bruinsburg on the morning of the 30th, and at once 
moved on to Port Gibson, while Colonel Gilchrist passed on, de- 
barked, and awaited Colonel Osband at Rodney. 

In the afternoon our forces found at Port Gibson thirty of 
Cobb's Black River Scouts and drove them, killing two men 
and three horses, and losing one man killed. Colonel Osband, 
under my orders, arrested at Ms place 13 of the most prominent 
and wealthy citizens to be held as hostages. 

The next morning, October 1, 'he marched to Rodney, reach- 
ing that place at 4 p. m., and then transferred to Colonel Gilchrist, 
commanding the infantry forces, about 125 head of cattle, 60 
mules, and the prisoners before mentioned. Colonel Gilchrist 
embarked his command, the property he 'had received from Colonel 
Osband and that which his own command had collected, and was 
on 'his way up river at sunset, reaching Vicksburg in the fore- 
noon on the 2d instant. At 4 a. m. on the 2d instant Colonel 
Osband moved toward Fayette, reaching that place at noon. 
There were here captured and destroyed between 75 and 100 
stand of arms. During the day, as the advance (the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, Major Cook) neared Cole's Creek, they dis- 
covered and chased seven members of Captain Ruth's command, 
killing one, mortally wounding one, and capturing the remaining 
five. On the 3d the command moved again at daylight, reaching 
Natchez at 10 p. m. By the way, the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, 
Major Dale commanding, was sent out on one flank, and the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry on the other. Major Dale's 
force, numbering about 180 men, encountered about 200 of the 
enemy's forces, under Captain Boyd, about fifteen miles from 
Natdh'ez. In the engagement which ensued seven of the enemy 
were killed, as our forces discovered in passing over the field. 
The loss on our side was two men slightly wounded. 

Colonel Osband turned over to the proper officers at Natchez, 



196 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

as the result of the expedition, 350 head of cattle, 125 head of 
sheep, 19 mules, and three horses. By so much continuous service 
the cavalry was much worn, and it was necessary to shoe about 
350 of the horses, for which purpose all the private as well as 
Government blacksmith shops at Natchez were at once employed. 
The sick, worn-out, and disabled men and horses were imme- 
diately sent to Vicksburg. 

With a view to further operations beyond and below Natchez, 
T deemed it advisable that I should be at that post to organize 
the contemplated expeditions, and accordingly Reached there 
on the 1st instant. 

It had been intended that the cavalry forces should embark 
at Natches on the evening of the 2d, but being unexpectedly 
detained by engagements with the enemy they could not move 
in time to receive the benefit of the co-operative movement 
toward Clinton, which, at my request, was made by Brigadier- 
General Lawler from Morganza, on the 3d instant. 

On the 4th the following arrangements were made: Colonel 
Osband with his original force, and in addition a detachment 
cf Fourth Illinois Cavalry (stationed at Natchez), making in 
all about 1,200 men, to embark on transports in the evening 
and proceed to Tunica Bend, 110 miles down the river, then 
debarking at daylight on the 5th to proceed at once to Wood- 
ville and beyond ; the Twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry, Col. L. 
Kent, stationed at Natchez, about 500 strong, to embark also 
and land at Tunica Bend and march across the peninsula to Fort 
Adams, there to await Colonel Osband ; Col. B. G. Farrar, Sixth 
U. S. Colored Artillery (heavy), with 1,000 infantry detailed 
from Brigadier-General Brayman's command at post of Natchez, 
to proceed to Havard's Ferry on Homochitto River, twenty-six 
miles from Natchez, there to' await the cavalry forces on their 
return toward Natchez. 

The reports of the subordinate commanders, herewith trans- 
mitted, show how satisfactorily these operations were executed. 

I notified General Lawler of the delay in my operations, and 

on the 5th he again threw out a force in the direction of Clinton. 

Our forces found a body of the enemy at Woodville on the 

morning of the 6th instant, surprised and partially surrounded 

them, and after a short engagement routed them, with a loss 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 197 

to the lenemy of 40 killed and 41 captured, including one captain 
and one lieutenant ; also captured three pieces of artillery, horses 
and harnesses. The loss on our side was nothing. 

Woodville was then occupied, and there were captured and 
destroyed there 35 stand of arms, 35 saddles, $100,000 worth of 
commissary and quartermaster's stores of the rebel Government, 
consisting of salt, sugar, flour, tobacco, cotton cloth, &. ; also 
were captured a rebel telegraph office, with instruments com- 
plete, and much mail matter. 

Our force moved in the evening of the 6th to the junction 
of the Pinckneyville and Woodville roads, four miles from Fort 
Adams, where the prisoners and captured property were turned 
over to Colonel Kent, commanding Twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry. 

Expecting to meet Colonel Scott's (rebel) forces at Wood- 
ville, Col. Osband reoccupied that place the next morning. There 
was some skirmishing, and one man killed on our side, but the 
enemy was not found to be in force anywhere in the vicinity. 
On the 8th he marched from Buffalo Creek, where he had 
encamped, meeting Colonel Farrar at Kingston and reaching 
Natchez in the afternoon. On the march beyond Woodville, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Otto Funk, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, was 
painfully, but not dangerously, wounded by some bushwhackers 
concealed in the thick 'brush near the road. 

It has subsequently appeared that in the skirmish of the 
morning of the 7th our forces had met Power's regiment (rebel) 
200 strong, and killed the commanding officer. Major McKowen, 
and eight men. 

Colonel Kent, marching from Tunica, via Pinckneyville, 
reached Fort Adams, eighteen miles, on the evening of the 5th. 
The transports were ordered to await him at that point, and 
when he had embarked the prisoners and property received from 
the cavalry, as well as that which he had himself collected, and 
had for prudential reasons delayed till the morning of the 8th, 
he returned to Natchez. I approved his course in tarrying at 
Fort Adams, as it was not certain what might be the result of 
Colonel Osband's operations. 

Colonel Kent reports no occurrence of importance on his 
march, having seen only small parties of the enemy on the 
march and during his stay at Fort Adams, (I had directed 



198 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

twenty-four hours' delay there for the purpose), he collected a 
considerable amount of property, and there came to him 215 
contrabands of all ages and sexes. He turned over to the proper 
officers at Natchez, including the property which the cavalry 
had captured, 24 horses, 73 serviceable mules, 330 beef-cattle, 
46 bales of cotton, and six wagons, readily convertible into army 
wagons. 

Colonel Farrar's official report has not yet been received, but 
I believe there was nothing worthy of reporting in bis opera- 
tions, except that he received about 300 cattle. He returned to 
Natchez immediately upon meeting Colonel Osband at Kingston. 

In all these operations 185 negro recruits were added to our 
colored forces. 

I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your 
obedient servant, 

N. J. T. Dana, 

Major-General. 
Lteut.-Col. C. T. Christensen, 

Asst. Adjt.-Gen., Military Division of West Mississippi. 
Rebellion Records, Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, p. 568-571. 



ADDENDA. 

Headquarters District of Vicksburg, 

Vicksburg, Miss., October 12, 1864. 
General Orders No. 60. 

It is the pleasant duty of the Major-General commanding to- 
make acknowledgement of the very creditable service of the 
cavalry of this command during their late operations, which have 
resulted in killing upward of 70 of the enemy, capturing the same 
number, with! a battery of light artillery, two mails and a tele- 
graph office, destroying a large amount of subsistence stores, 
small-arms and ammunition, besides bringing in about 1,000 
head of cattle, 300 valuable mules, and many horses. These 
operations have extended over 500 miles, and it is very grat- 
ifying that no robbery or marauding has been complained of. 
The improved discipline of the regiments reflect credit on the 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 199 

officers and will always be a matter of pride with every man 
belonging to the brigade, as that improves their endurance and 
the efficiency of the mounts increases, and with these results 
the weight and shock of the charge. Let all officers and men 
now apply themselves strictly to instruction and discipline. Let 
no officer be absent from water and stable calls. 

Look well to the health of the soldier and to the condition 
of his best friend — his horse — and let us he ready for the opera- 
tions of an early day. 

By order of Maj.—Gcn. N. J. T. Dana. 

F. W. Fox, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 



CHAPTER XVI. 



THE THIRD U. S. COLORED CAVALRY THROWN INTO THE BREACH — 

THE CAPTURE AND BURNING OP THE RAILROAD BRIDGE 
OVER BIG BLACK RIVER, NOVEMBER 27, 1864. 

On the morning of November 23, 1864, a large, cavalry force 
left Vicksburg. This force was commanded by Brevet Brigadier- 
General, E. D. Osband, and was composed of the following troops : 
Fifth and Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, the former commanded by 
Colonel McConnell, and the latter by Major Bur-bridge, the 
Second Wisconsin Cavalry, commanded by Major Dale, the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry, commanded by Major J. B. Cook, and the 
Fifth U. S. Artillery, colored, eight guns, a pontoon train also 
accompanied the command. 

The ostensible object of this expedition was a move on Jack- 
son, Miss., but the real intention was the capture and destruction 
of the railroad bridge over the Big Black. 

In July preceding this movement an expedition had been sent 
out from Vicksburg to occupy Jackson. The Confederate sympa- 
thizers in Vicksburg found means to communicate the informa- 
tion to the rebel General Wirt Adams, who commanded a divi- 
sion of cavalry, with headquarters at Jackson. 

General Adams' forces consisted of five brigades of cavalry, 
6,000 or 7,000 men, scattered from Grenada on the north, to 



200 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Natchez on the south', which forces at this time, November 23d, 
occupied about the same relative positions as on the previous oc- 
casion. General Adams was duly informed of the object of this 
expedition, no attempt having been made to keep it secret. 

On the 23d the command marched to Black River, put down 
the pontoon, when the Second Wisconsin and Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry were ordered to cross over and make a reconnoissance or 
demonstration towards Jackson. This force went as far as 
Baker's Creek where they camped and started fires all along 
Champion Hills, the old battle ground. Before midnight, however 
the reconnoitering force quietly withdrew, leaving the fires burn- 
ing brightly and rejoined the main command on the west side of 
Black river. 

In the meantime General Adams was being informed by his 
scouts and couriers of the advance of the Union forces on Jackson, 
and all night the wires were kept hot with messages sent out 
from Jackson by General Adams to his scattered troops, ordering 
t'foem to march day and night to the defense of Jackson. At an 
early hour on the morning of the 24th, the whole command, ex- 
cept the artillery, which was left to guard the pontoon bridge, 
crossed the river and moved rapidly up the east side, while the 
rebel forces were moving for the defense of Jackson. Keeping 
on toward Benton, the command camped that night at Wesly 
Chapel. Moving on the morning of the 26th, the command pro- 
ceeded to within a few miles of Benton, and meeting no enemy, 
camped near Deasonville. On the morning of the 27th, marched 
at daylight, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry having the advance, 
cut telegraph wires beyond Deasonville and burned Vaughan 
Station and cut the wires at that place. 

The railroad bridge over Big Black river was situated four 
miles below Vaughan Station. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
Major Cook commanding, was sent to destroy the bridge. This 
bridge was situated in an almost impenetrable swamp, and was 
inaccessible except over the narrow railroad track, which was 
broken at intervals by open trestle-work. From the nature of 
things the use of artillery was impracticable, leaving no alterna- 
tive but a direct charge over the railroad ties and trestle-work. 

The bridge was defended by a large force of infantry, at least 
one regiment, who were strongly posted in stockades on both 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. £01 

sides of the river, and from which they could concentrate a deadly 
fire on the bridge and its approaches without exposing themselves 
to danger. The position was considered well nigh impregnable. 
Two previous attempts by some of the best troops in the depart- 
ment had failed to dislodge the enemy and destroy the bridge. 

That these assaults had been desperately maintained and the 
bridge heroically defended, its blackened and bullet-torn timbers 
attested. 

It was at a time when the rebel General Hood was concen- 
trating his army for an attack on Nashville. His means of ob- 
taining' supplies and re-enforcements must be cut off, to effect 
which the railroad bridge over Big Black must be destroyed, 
from the previous vain attempts to dislodge the enemy from his 
strongly intrenched position, it was well known to the district 
commander that the bridge could only be taken by the most de- 
termined bravery and the sacrifice of many lives. It was not so 
much a question of numbers to be brought into action as it was 
of the dash and mettle of those engaged. 

It may therefore be considered as a high compliment to the 
officers and men of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry that they 
were selected to lead the assault. The regiment was dismounted 
a mile or more from the bridge, that being as close as a mounted 
force could approach it. One man in every set of fours was left 
to hold horses. The following disposition of the forces for the 
assault was made : Major Cook proceeded along the railroad 
track with a few men to attract the attention of the enemy, while 
the balance of the force, about equally divided, moved through 
the swamp under Major Main and Captain Emery, Major Main 
on the right and Captain Emery on the left of the railroad. The 
ground was boggy and covered with a heavy growth of timber, 
vines and brambles. The mien waded waist deep in mud and 
water a great part of the distance, which rendered progress ex- 
tremely slow and tedious, and some time before they reached the 
bridge, the force under Major Cook attracted the attention of 
the enemy, who opened fire, but Major Cook kept his men at 
long range, alternately advancing and falling back, whch had the 
desired effect of drawing the rebels out of their stockade. In 
the meantime the detachments under Major Main and Captain 
Emery crept closer and closer until they gained a position close 
to the bank of the river and near the bridge from which point, 



202 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

screened by the thick under-brush, they delivered a very effective 
cross fire, The rebels, thinking that the force in view on the rail- 
road was all they had to contend with, came out of the stockade 
and formed along the bank of the river, seemingly enjoying the 
sport of shooting at Yankees, when the detachments under Major 
Main and Captain Emery, at the blast of the bugle, that being 
tlie prearranged signal, simultaneously opened fire. Tosaythatthe 
rebels were surprised would not express it. If a thunder-bolt 
had cleft the earth at their feet they could not have been more 
dumbfounded. For a moment they seemed stunned, not knowing 
what to do or which way to go, but when they regained their 
senses they lost no time in getting back inside the stockade. 
There was, however, no cessation in the firing from start to fin- 
ish. Twenty carbines covered every port-hole in the stockade, 
rendering it extremely dangerous for the rebels to return the fire. 

During this terrible bombardment a charging party crossed the 
bridge, the men jumping from tie to tie and from stringer to 
stringer. 

At the stockade a hand to hand fight ensued, the black- 
troopers, led by their white officers, swarmed through the sally 
ports of the stockade, driving the rebels from their position, who 
retreated back into the woods, from which place they kept up a 
scattering fire during the destruction of the bridge. One com- 
pany carried a large supply of coal oil in canteens, with which the 
frame-work of the bridge was well saturated. Brush and such 
material as could be found at hand was brought and piled on the 
bridge in great quantities, when the fire was applied to it. The 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry never did anything by halves, and 
the bridge was utterly and irretrievably destroyed before they left 
it. After the destruction of the bridge, the whole regiment re- 
turned on the railroad track, tearing it up as they went. With 
the combined strength of 500 men the track was lifted bodily, ties 
and all, and rolled down the embankment, when once in motion 
the momentum was almost sufficient to keep it going. Thus long 
stretches of track could be quickly destroyed. This mode of 
tearing up railroads originated with the officers of the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry, and they became experts at it. 

The conduct of the regiment on this occasion was most 
favorably mentioned in general orders No. 81, Headquarters 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. ^03 

Military Division of West Mississippi, December 9, 1864, and in 
General Orders No. 303, War Department, Washington, D< 
ber 22, 1864. (See General Canby's report). 

On the 28th, the command was engaged in scouting by de- 
tachments, destroying railroads and Confederate property, cotton 
& etc. 

On the 29th the command reached Yazoo City and camped. 
The pickets had hardly been posted when they were attacked, 
showing that the enemy were in close proximity. On the 30th 
the command remained in camp to rest the horses, frequent 
attacks on the pickets being made. 

On the morning of December 1st, at an early hour detach- 
ments were sent out on all the roads to feel for the enemy. 
Colonel Dale, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, commanding the force 
sent out on the Vicksburg road encountered the enemy in large 
force, and was driven back after a hot fight, sustaining a loss of 
thirty men killed, wounded and taken prisoners, Colonel Dale 
being among the wounded. The enemy were found on all the 
roads leading into the city. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry was sent out on the road 
running up the river, or north from the city, where they en- 
countered a considerable force of the enemy, with whom they 
had a spirited skirmish, repulsing the enemy and sustaining no 
loss. It having been ascertained that the enemy were closing in 
around the city on the northeast and south and that they were in 
heavy force on the Vicksburg road, where they had artillery, it was 
deemed unwise to risk a battle, particularly as the command was 
running short of amunition, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry alone 
having fired 10,000 rounds in the fight at the railroad bridge. 
It was therefore decided to transfer the command to the west 
side of the Yazoo river, and at 4 p. m., the work of ferrying the 
command over was commenced, the work continuing without 
interruption until 8 a. m. the next morning, when the last boat 
load was landed on the west bank. 

In the mean time, to cover this movement, our pickets were 
pushed well out, showing the enemy a bold front, the command 
being withdrawn company by company. The only means ot 
crossing the river was by a small flat-boat, twelve horses and men 
being a load. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry was the last 



204 Third U. S Colored Cavalry. 

regiment to cross, they being kept well to the front and constantly 
engaged in skirmishing with the enemy, who seeing that our 
lines were being weakened pressed forward with great energy, 
forcing the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry back to the water's edge, 
where under the guns of our men on the opposite bank they were 
able to effect a crossing, though under a galling fire. 

The crossing was effected without serious loss, and the com- 
mand moved down along the west bank of the river to the 
mouth of Sunflower river, a tributary of the Yazoo, where it 
camped until boats arrived from Vicksburg. 

The Steamer S'henango and Gunboat Prarie Bird were in the 
river, having been sent up from Vicksburg with supplies for the 
command. The sick and wounded were sent to Vicksburg on the 
steamer, conveyed by the gunboat. 

Major Cook, with the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry and 
Second Wisconsin Cavalry and four pieces of artillery, was the 
last to leave the camp at the mouth of the Sunflower river, Colonel 
Osband with the balance of the command having embarked 
pi eviously. In the meantime the enemy were moving down along 
the east bank of the Yazoo. The country on the west side of 
the Yazoo is low and swampy, while on the east side it is hilly, 
often rising in bluffs to considerable height, which were covered 
with a growth of scrubby trees and bushes, offering positions of 
great advantage for a concealed enemy. 

The rebels availing themselves of these advantages, occupied 
positions in the bluffs below the mouth of the Sunflower, where 
they lay in wait for the transports carrying Major Cook's com- 
mand. 

A few days after the departure of Colonel Osband, three 
transports and the gunboat Prairie Bird came up the river for 
the troops left under the command of Major Cook. 

The troops were soon embarked, when the transports started 
down the river under convoy of the gunboat. Small squads of 
the enemy soon made their appearance on the east bank; they 
were mounted and kept well out of range, but their presence 
portended trouble. The four pieces of artilery were placed in 
position on the port side of the boat, facing the bluffs, and the 
troops were disposed of in the best manner for the defense of 
the boat and their own protection, being placed behind hastily 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 205 

constructed 'barricades of wood, boxes, and such material as 
could be found on the boat. 

When seven or eight miles from the starting point, anil 
opposite some bluffs, the enemy opened fire with artillery and 
small arms. The river at this point was quite narrow, not more 
than one hundred yards in width, which brought the boats within 
close range of the enemy. The gunboat could only return the 
fire with her port guns, which, however, were well served and 
being double shotted with grape and canister, must have done 
great execution. 

Running the line of fire the gunboat doubled on her course, 
and running back, brought her starboard and bow guns into 
action. 

As the transports came within the line of fire their four 
pieces of artillery opened fire, raking the bluffs, and a thousand 
carbines sent a storm of bullets into every thicket along the face 
of the bluffs. 

Thus for a mile or more the boats were under fire. Except a 
few men wounded, caused mostly by flying splinters, no loss was 
sustained. 

The upper works of the transports were pretty well shot 
away. 

The command reached Vicksburg without further incident, 
where it was received with manifestations of joy and praise for 
the success achieved. 

The newspapers throughout the country mentioned the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry in the highest terms for their heroism in 
the capture of the bridge over Big Black. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

Reports of Colonel E. D. Osband, General N. J. T. Dana, 
and General E. R. S. Canby, also General Orders No. 303, War 
Department, and General Orders No. 81, Military Division of 
West Mississippi. 



206 Third U. S Colored Cavalry. 

report oe col. e. d. osband, commanding expedition. 
Headquarters Expedition, 

Yazoo City, December 1, 1864. 

Captain— I have the honor to report that I burned the rail- 
road bridge on Sunday last (November 27), and thirty miles of 
railroad on Monday, and reached here without serious loss on the 
29th, at 1 p. m. I rested yesterday, but still find my stock much 
disabled. 

Hearing rumors of the concentration of the enemy for my 
capture, I sent this morning detachments on each road, all of 
which found some portions of the enemy. The Second Wiscon- 
sin, 250 strong, found about 1,500 of the enemy, part cavalry and 
part infantry; no artillery was used, but I know they have four 
batteries. From twenty-five to fifty of the Second Wisconsin 
were killed, wounded and missing. Major Dale was severely 
wounded in the ankle. 

At four p. m., judging that with so large a force in my front 
I could not move to Vicksburg on this side the river, I com- 
menced crossing to the other side. I judge that I shall have my 
command in the saddle on the west bank of the Yazoo river by 
3 a. m. to-morrow, and expect to reach the mouth of the Big- 
Sunflower by noon to-morrow. I desire you to send to me at 
that point transports sufficient for my command and the gunboat 
Indicator, although transports unattended can come with safety 
to this point. I anticipate no trouble here to-night, and believe I 
can make the movement successfully without loss. I am com- 
pelled to send the Shenango with sick and wounded, although the 
rebels may have batteries at Liverpool and Satartia. The 
Prairie Bird will assist her as much as possible. I believe the 
present movement of the Confederate forces quite formidable. 
and may have Vicksburg in view, although the destruction of the 
railroad will prevent rapid movements for some days. 

Almost all of these troops operating against me came over 
the railroad from Grenada, and perhaps higher up. 

I trust the transports will be sent immediately, as T have no ra- 
tions. 

Respectfully, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Colonel, Commanding Expedition. 



Third U.S. Colored Cavalry. 207 

One of the transports should bring me 10,000 rations and 
four day's forage for 2,200 men and 2,500 horses and mules, 
unless transports enough to take the whole command are sent, 
when the forage will not be needed. 

Respectfully, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Colonel, etc. 
Captain F. W. Fox, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

(Rebellion Records, Vol, XLV, Part 1. p 780-81.) 



second report. 
Headquarters Cavalry Forces. 
Vicksburg, Miss, December 4, 1864. 

Captain — I have the honor to report that, pursuant to orders 
of the major-general commanding, I moved with my command to 
Big Black railroad bridge on the morning of the 23d of Novem- 
ber. Desiring to make a feint of attack on Jackson, Miss, the 
pontoon bridge was laid on the morning of the 24th, and a scout 
of two regiments was sent out under Major N. H. Dale, Sec- 
ond Wisconsin Cavalry Volunteers, who proceeded to Baker's 
Creek, meeting no force of the enemy. On the 25th of Novem- 
ber, leaving the pontoon bridge in charge of the Fifth U. S. 
Colored Artillery (heavy), the command moved towards Benton 
and camped at Wesley Chapel, moving on the 26th of November, 
to within three miles of Benton, and still found no enemy. 

On the morning of the 27th of November, we marched at 
daylight, and the advance of a column under Major Cook, Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry, cut the telegraph on the railroad beyond 
Deasonville, and in sight of Vaughn Station, at 12-30 p. m. 

The railroad bridge across Big Black lay four miles below, 
without any approach save the railroad track, and artillery could 
not be taken to it. 

Other expeditions had attempted to burn it, and failed. 

Since the attempt of General McArthur last May it had been 



208 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

strengthened by a stockade this side the river, the approach to 
which was over the railroad trestle-work, twenty-five feet high. 

I sent the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, Major J. B. Cook 
commanding, to burn it. 

He advanced his men dismounted, down the track, with one 
company preceding him on each flank in the swamp below. 

When some distance from the bridge the skirmishing became 
warm, and the bank of the river and the recently erected stockade 
were carried with some difficulty. 

Repeated volleys at thirty yards range failing to dislodge them 
from the stockade on the other side of the river, Major Cook 
formed three companies on the trestle-work, and with only the 
railroad ties for a path, charged and carried the stockade under 
a heavy fire, the enemy only retiring when his advance was liter- 
ally inside the stockade. 

Being heavily re-enforced from Way's Bluff Station, one 
mile distant, the Confederates attempted to regain their lost 
ground, and failed. 

When brush and dry trees had been gathered sufficient to 
burn the heavy timbers, the long trestle-work beyond the bridge, 
and the half mile on this side, were fired, the wind favoring, the 
whole of the trestle-work and the major part of the bridge were 
consumed, repeated volleys from our men keeping the rebels 
from interference. The rebels left three dead, *our loss three 
wounded. In the 1 meantime the balance of the men had not been 
idle. 

The Fifth Illinois Cavalry, Col. John McConnell command- 
ing, tore up and burned one mile of track, bending every rail 
and throwing away the chairs. 

The Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Major Burbridge commanding, 
tore up one mile and a half of track, burning and bending every 
rail. They also burned railroad buildings at Vaughn Station, 
$166,000 worth of railroad supplies (as per bills), 100 bales C. S. 
A. cotton, 20 barrels salt, 4 stage coaches, large piles of grain, 
etc. On Monday, the 29th, Major Burbridge proceeded to 
Pickett Station, burning all trestle work, railroad buildings, 
1,200 bales C. S. A. cotton, together with large amounts of wheat 
and corn. The command moved toward Goodman, burning 
long lines of high and important trestle-work. 



Third L T 5*. Colored Cavalry. 209 

When two miles from Goodman, I sent forward the Eleventh 
Illinois Cavalry, and Fifth Illinois Cavalry, under Col. John Mc- 
Donnell, to burn railroad there. 

* It was subsequently learned that the enemy lost 10 killed 
and many wounded. — Author. 

One battalion, Fifth Illinois Cavalry, under Colonel McCon- 
nell's orders, proceeded to wagon road bridge over Big Black, 
and although meeting fully their number of Confederates, drove 
them across the bridge and burned it. 

Colonel McConnell burned railroad buildings at Goodman, 
1,300 bales C. S. A. cotton, large amounts of corn and wheat, 2 
engines and four cars. 

The railroad is destroyed for thirty miles and cannot be 
repaired by the Confederates in two months with any force at 
their command. The importance of this must be apparent. The 
Black river Valley groans with 1 its weight of corn, wheat, cattle, 
and hogs. 

The railroad was finished to Jackson, Tenn., and supplies 
were being hurried to Hood's army. Three trains of infantry 
were sent to the relief of Jackson the night preceding the one 
in which the bridge was 'burnt, who will now be compelled either 
to walk back or wait. 

On the 29th of November, retracing our steps, we occupied 
Yazoo City at 1 p. m., our pickets being strongly attacked a few 
h<ours later. 

It is probable that the city would have been occupied by 
the enemy had we not taken possession as we did. 

The 30th was given to resting our tired horses. 

Rumors coming of an advance of the enemy, our lines were 
strengthened. So numerous became these rumors that the or- 
ders to march out at daylight of the 1st December was counter- 
manded, and instead scouting parties sent out on all the roads 
for information. The enemy were found on each road in more 
or less force, but strongest on the Vicksburg road, on which I 
had sent Maj. N. H. Dale with 250 men of the Second Wisconsin 
Cavalry. He moved at daylight, and driving before him a few 
of the enemy passed the junction of the Yazoo City and Benton 
roads. Here, at some negro quarters, some strength was shown 
by the enemy, and two companies were dismounted to dislodge 



1'JO Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

them. Finding these about to be flanked, two other companies 
were dismounted and sent to their assistance. Just beyond these 
quarters a dense undergrowth of scrub oak commenced, and 
when the enemy were driven back to this, they appeared in 
great numbers, and suddenly charging our men, drove them, cap- 
turing a part of Company E, Second Wisconsin Cavalry. Major 
Dale being previously wounded in the ankle, fainted from loss 
of blood and pain, but despite this, the detachment reformed 
and twice repulsed the charges made upon them, with loss to 
the enemy. 

The command was withdrawn without confusion. Careful 
officers estimate the number of the enemy at from 1,500 to 3,000 
men, and their loss at 75 men killed and wounded. Our loss 
was 5 enlisted men killed, 1 commissioned officer wounded, 8 
enlisted men wounded, 1 commissioned officer missing, 24 en- 
listed men missing. From the fact that a portion of this force 
was infantry, that they occupied a very strong position, that 
lay directly in my road, and that I could not flank because they 
used no artillery, although having plenty, I determined I ought 
not to risk defeat without a base to fall back upon, or supplies 
of any kind in case delayed, and therefore commenced crossing 
the Yazoo River with my command at 4 p. m. At 8 p. m. 
of the 2d we finished crossing, in safety, and moved to the 
mouth of the Big Sunflower, where they now await transporta- 
tion to this city. The Shenango was fired into at Short Creek, 
and one enlisted man of the Fifth Illinois Cavalry was severely 
wounded. I desire to return my thanks to Captain Gorringe, 
of the Vindicator ; Captain Burns, of the Prairie Bird, and each 
commanding officer of each regiment and battery, for their full 
co-operation and cheerful and prompt obedience to all orders 
issued. 

During the entire march the most perfect order has been 
maintained, winning even from the confederate citizens enco- 
miums on our discipline. 

The men returned in excellent health, but many valuable 
horses are broken down. 

The loss of hay for three months past is painfully apparent, 
and many valuable animals have been lost on account of their 
diseased condition caused by lack of hay. Hay at any price 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 211 

is economy to the Government, and adds to our efficiency fully 
one-third to one-half. 

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Colonel Third U. S. 

Colored Cavalry. 
Commanding Cavalry Forces, District of Vicksburg. 
Capt. F. W. Fox, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 
Rebellion Records, Vol. XLV, Part 1, p. 781, 782, 783. 



REPORT OP MAJ. GEN. NAPOLEON J. T. DANA, U. S. ARMY. 

COMMANDING DISTRICT OP WEST TENNESSEE AND 

VICKSBURG. 

Headquarters District of 
West Tennessee and Vicksburg, 

Vicksburg, December 4, 1864. 

Sir: — I have the honor to transmit herewith the reports of 
Col. E. D. Osband, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, commanding 
Cavalry Forces, District of Vicksburg, of the cavalry expedi- 
tions sent by me from Vicksburg on the 23d ultimo, as projected 
in my letter to Brig. Gen. J. W. Davidson, chief of cavalry 
Military Division of West Mississippi, of 18th ultimo, and my 
letter to you of 22d ultimo. Leaving Vicksburg at daylight on 
November 23d, the expedition, consisting of 2,200 cavalry, eight 
pieces of artillery, and a pontoon train, arrived at Big Black 
River at 1 p. m. same day and laid the pontoon bridge over the 
Big Black. On the 24th the Eleventh Illinois and Second Wis- 
consin Cavalry, Maj. Dale, Second Wisconsin, commanding, 
crossed and proceeded scouting toward Jackson, returning and 
recrossing at night without meeting the enemy, although sub- 
sequent information satisfies me that some 3,000 of the enemy 
were in line of battle on the Jackson road to contest the advance. 

The bridge was taken up, started back to Vicksburg under 
escort, and the column moved toward Yazoo City on the morning 
of the 25th, marching thirty-seven miles that day, bivouacking 



212 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

near Mechanicsburg ; marched thirty-six miles on 26th, bivouac- 
ing near Benton ; struck the Big Black bridge on the 27th, and 
reached Yazoo City on the 29th. The last of the troops returned 
to Vicksburg to-night, December 4. The entire plan, as detailed 
by me to yourself and General Davidson, was completely car- 
ried out by Colonel Osband, completely deceiving the enemy, 
and the expedition was a signal success; he brings back more 
recruits than bis entire loss in effective force, and reports the 
destruction of the very important long railroad bridge and trestle 
at the crossing of the Mississippi Central railroad over the Big 
Black River, near Canton, Miss. ; thus cutting off the supplies 
and stores accumulated at Jackson, Miss, from Hood's army, 
and severing railroad communication between Corinth, Jackson, 
Meridian, and Mobile; this — together with the burning of piles 
and storehouses full of corn and grain, and 30 miles track, 
wagon road bridge over Big Black, Vaughn Station (railroad 
depot and buildings), Picket Station (railroad depot and build- 
ings), Goodman Station (railroad depot and buildings), 2,600 
bales C S. cotton, 2 locomotives, 4 cars, 4 stage coaches, 20 
barrels salt, $166,000 worth of stores at Vaughn Station — makes 
it one of the heaviest blows dealt the rebellion, as it directly 
affects the efficiency of Hood's army now on the Tennessee 
River, dependent on this railroad and these supplies. 

Information just received from a deserter shows that there 
were at least two brigades of cavalry and one brigade of infantry 
closing in on Colonel Osband at Yazoo City, thus confirming 
his impression of the superiority of the rebel forces. 

Requesting that Colonel Osband's well-deserved mention of 
officers and commands may receive the attention of the Major- 
General commanding division, 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient 
servant, N. J. T. Dana, 

Major-General. 

I cannot close this report without calling attention to Maj. 
J. B. Cook, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, for some time past 
in command of the regiment. The intelligence, industry, and 
devotion to the service, with the long list of gallant deeds con- 
stantly enacted by Major Cook, entitle him to consideration, 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 213 

while in my judgment the best interests of the service demand 
his rapid advancement. The charge over the railroad trestle- 
work and bridge by dismounted cavalry, led by Major Cook, 
was one of the most dashing and heroic acts of the war. 

As an act of simple justice, I recommend his promotion to 
the lieutenant-colonelcy of his regiment now vacant. 

N. J. T. Dana, 

Major-General. 
Lieut. Col. C. T. Cristlnsen, 

Asst. Adjt. Gen. Hdqrs. Mil. Div. W. Miss., New Orleans, La. 
Report of Maj. Gen. Edward R. S. Canby, U. S. Army, 
Commanding Military Division of West Mississippi. 



Headquarters Military Division 
of West Mississippi. 

New Orleans, La., December 9, 1864. 

On the 25th ultimo I reported that movements co-opera- 
tive with General Sherman's operations would be made from 
Vicksburg and Baton Rouge for true purpose of cutting Hood's 
communications with Mobile. The expedition sent from Vicks- 
burg, and consisting of about 2,000 cavalry and 8 pieces of artil- 
lery, commanded by Col. E. D. Osband, Third Colored Cavalry, 
returned on the 4th instant, having met with a complete suc- 
cess. After an admirably executed feint movement on Jackson 
on the 24th, the expedition started for Big Black bridge, on 
the Mississippi Central Railroad, which was reached on the 
27th, and after a stubborn resistance captured and destroyed. 

This cuts Hood's army off from the large quantities of 
supplies and stores 1 accumulated at Jackson, Miss., and makes 
that railroad, which was his main reliance, unavailable to him 
for months to come. Besides this important bridge and trestle- 
work, the following property was completely destroyed: 30 
miles of track, wagon bridge over Big Black, Vaughn, Pickett 
and Goodman Stations (railroad depots and buildings), 2,600 
bales C. S. cotton, 2 locomotives, 4 cars, 4 stage coaches, 20 
barrels salt, $166,000 worth of stores at Vaughn Station. The 



214 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

expedition was considerably harrassed on its return by large 
bodies of the enemy's troops, but suffered no material losses, 
and brought back more recruits than the entire loss in effec- 
tive men. 

Major J. B. Cook, commanding the Third Colored Cavalry, 
distinguished himself and his regiment greatly by the gal- 
lantry with which the force guarding the Big Black bridge 
were driven off from behind their strong stockade on the op- 
posite side of the river. Our men had to charge across the 
bridge dismounted, with nothing but railroad ties for a path,, 
and in the face of a sharp fire. 

T have announced Major Cook, in general orders, as pro- 
moted to the vacant lieutenant-colonelcy of the regiment, subject 
to the approval of the President. 

General Davidson's expedition, which left Baton Rouge on 
the 27th has not yet been heard from directly, but to judge 
from the meager accounts received through rebel sources, I 
have reason to believe that he has been successful. He had 
caused quite a panic in Mobile, and was reported as devastating 
the country generally. After accomplishing the purpose for 
which he was sent, he will probably come out at Pascagoula 
or some other point of the gulf. 

Lieutenant Earl, commanding a special /party of scouts, 
and whom I recently recommended for promotion by brevet, 
has, I regret to say, fallen into the hands of the enemy. On 
the 30th of November, while passing through Fayette, Miss., 
on an expedition to co-operate with Generals Dana and David- 
son, he was fired upon from a house in the town and wounded 
severely in the face and breast. His case was so critical that 
he would not let his men take him away, and the rebels have 
since moved him into the interior. If he survives I shall use 
every exertion to have him exchanged at an early day. 
E. R. S. Canby, 

Major General Commanding.. 
Ma j. Gen H. W. HaixSck, 

Chief of Staff of the Army, Washington, D. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 215 

ADDENDA. 

War Department, Adjutant-General's Office. 

II ashington, December 22, 1864 
General Orders, 

No 303. 

The following General Orders, No. 81, from the headquarters 
Military Division of West Mississippi, is approved by the Pres- 
ident of the United States. 

Headquarters Military Division, 
of West Mississippi. 



New Orleans, La., December 9, 1864. 



General Orders, 
No. 81. 



Subject to the approval of the President of the United States 
Major J. B. Cook, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, is hereby pro- 
moted to the lieutenant-Colonelcy of that regiment, to date from 
the 27th of November, 1864, in consideration of the gallantry 
displayed by him on that day, when, with his men dismounted 
and having nothing but railroad ties for a path, he charged 
over the Big Black bridge, near Canton, Miss., in the face of a 
heavy fire, drove off the rebel force stationed on the opposite 
shore behind a strong stockade, and destroyed the bridge, by 
which the main line of the rebel General Hood's communica- 
tions with his depots in South Mississippi and Alabama were 
effectually cut off. The major-general commanding the Dis- 
tricts of West Tennessee and Vicksburg styles this affair as 
"one of the most daring and heroic acts of the war." 
By order of 

Maj. Gen. E. R. S. Canbv, 
C. T. Christensen, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 
By order of the Secretary of War. 
(R. R. Vol. XLV, Part 1, p 778.) 

E. D.Townsend, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 



216 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

ADDENDA. 

Headquarters Department of the Mississipi. 

Memphis, Tenn., December 21, 1864. 
General Orders, 

No. 6. 

The following communication from the general command- 
ing Military Division of West Mississippi is published for the in- 
formation of this command; 

Headquarters Military Division, 
of West Mississippi. 

Neiv Orleans, La., December 9, 1864 
Mat. Gen. N. J. T. Dana, 

Commanding District of West Tennessee and Vicksburg, 
Memphis, Tenn. : 

General: — Your report of the 4th instant has been re- 
ceived, and I learn with sincere gratification of the suc- 
cessful results of the expedition sent by you on the 23d of last 
month for the destruction of the rebel General Hood's most im- 
portant line of communication. Be pleased, general to accept 
my thanks for the skill with which you planned the details of 
this expedition and the excellent precautions taken to insure its 
perfect success, and convey to the officers and man, who shared 
its honors and dangers, and especially to Colonel Osband and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Cook, of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
and Major Dale, of the second Wisconsin Cavalry, who was ser- 
iously wounded while leading his men against a superior 
force of the enemy, my warmest acknowledgment of the gal- 
lantry, the rapidity of movement, and the exemplary good order 
which marked throughout one of the most successful expedi- 
tions of its kind that has been undertaken during the present 
war. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
Ed. R. S. Canby, 
Major-General Commanding. 




S. H. PK'ITHNGII.L, 
1st Lieut. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 217 

The major-general commanding- department assures his 
officers and men that merit, gallantry, and enterprise shall al- 
ways meet with recognition and reward. 
By order or 

Maj. Gun. N. J. T. Dana, 
T. H. Harris, 
Lieutenant-Colonel and 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 
Rebellion Records, Vol. XLV, Part 1, p. 780. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

THE GRISRSON RAID, DKC 21ST, 1864, TO JAN. 13TH, 1865. 

A Ride Through the Confederacy. — Foraging off the Country. — 
War's Havoc. — The fight at Egypt Station and Franklin, Miss.. 
— The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry played a conspicuous part 
in this raid, often leading the van, marching by day and by 
night, fighting their way through the enemy's country. 

This raid ranks with the greatest 'cavalry achievements 
of the civil war. It swept a swath many miles in width from 
Memphis, Tlenn., to Vicksburg, Miss. The enemy's forces 
swarmed the country through which it passed, but the bold, 
rapid movements of the raiding column, making a feint here 
and an attack there, completely frustrated the opposing forcess 

So the raiding column swept on, marching late into the 
night to captura some outlying garrison, while its flanking 
parties marched by the light of burning bridges, store-houses 
and factories. 

Reports of the approach of the "yankee marauders" flew in ad- 
vance of the column, carrying terror to the inhabitants and con- 
sternation to the armed forces of the Confederacy. 

The troops composing this raiding column consisted of three 
brigades of veteran cavalry, viz : First Brigade, Second New 
Jersey Cavalry, Fourth Missouri Cavalry ,» Seventh iEndiana 
Cavalry, and First Mississippi Mounted Rifles, commanded by 
Colonel Joseph Karge, Colonel Second New Jersey Cavalry 



218 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Second Brigade, Third and Fourth Iowa Cavalry, and Tenth 
Missouri Cavalry, commanded by Colonel E. F. Winslow, Col- 
onel Fourth Iowa Cavalry; Third Brigade, Fourth and Eleventh 
Illinois Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, and Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, and 50 men of the pioneer corps, colored, the 
latter under command of Lieut. Lewis, of the Seventh Indiana 
Cavalry, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry under command of 
Major Ed. M. Main. This brigade was commanded by Col- 
onel E. D. Osband, Colonel Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. The 
whole under command of Brigadier-General B. H. Grierson. 

Previous to the departure of this expedition information 
was obtained that the enemy were accumulating large quanti- 
ties of supplies on the line of the Mobile and Ohio and Mississippi 
Central Railroads for transportation to General Hood's army, 
and a brigade of troops was sent forward to make a demon- 
stration on Bolivar, with orders to then swing southeast and join 
the main column near Ripley, but owing to heavy rains it was 
found impracticable to cross Wolf River, and not being able 
to form the intended junction, the command returned to Mem- 
phis. 



THE START. 



On the morning of the 21st of December, 1864, the expedi- 
tion left Memphis, accompanied by a large infantry force, and 
moved along the line of the Memphis and Charleston Rail- 
road as far as Moscow, making a demonstration toward Corinth. 

The cavalry under General Grierson, cut loose from the in- 
fantry near Germantown, and took the most direct route to 
Ripley, passing through Lamar and Salem. From Early Grove 
a detachment of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, under Captain 
Neet, was ordered to proceed to the vicinity of Grand Junc- 
tion and cut the railroad and telegraph lines. 

No wagons nor artillery were taken with this expedition, 
the command moving in light marching order. Each man car- 
ried two days' cooked rations and forty rounds of ammuni- 
tion, in addition to which, ten days' rations of coffee and hard- 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 219 

tack, and 150 rounds of ammunition per man, was carried on 
pack animals. For other provisions for men and animajls, 
the command was to rely on the resources of the country 
through which it would pass. 

The pack train was a striking feature of the expedition, 
about 1000 animals, horses and mules, were used for this pur- 
pose, all the rations and extra ammunition for the command 
being carried in this way. 

Each company was allowed a certain number of pack an- 
imals, which on the march, were consolidated into regimental and 
brigade pack trains, and placed under the command of com- 
missioned officers, who were detailed each day for that duty. 
One soldier was detailed to take charge of two packs, leading 
them. Thus organized, the pack train made a long column in 
itself. 

A place in the column was daily assigned the pack train, 
usually in the rear. Much difficulty was at first experienced in 
managing the pack animals, they being unused to the work, 
and many of them rebelled, making frantic efforts to free them- 
selves from their burden by lying down and rolling ever, 
while others, breaking away, would run amuck, doing no end 
of damage. Much amusement was often created by a mule run- 
ning away with his pack, which colliding with a tree, would 
scatter hardtack and coffee in all directions. Much of the ra- 
tions were in this way destroyed. 

The weather was uncomfortably cold on the day the com- 
mand left Memphis, and the roads were in a deplorable con- 
dition, much rain having fallen during the two or three days 
previous. 

The command marched about 25 miles the first day, and 
camped that night in an old field. This first night in camp, 
long to be remembered, was marked by a good deal of suffering, 
both among the men and horses. Soon after going into camp 
a cold sleet set in, which later turned to snow, the tempera- 
ture falling considerably below the freezing point, and the men, 
huddled together in groups, shivered in the pelting storm the 
live long night. Contrasted with the warm, comfortable quar- 
ters they had left in Memphis, this night's experience will 



220 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

never be forgotten by those who endured it. The horses suf- 
fered little less than the men, being so numb and stiff the next 
morning that it was with the greatest difficulty they could move, 
and had to be rubbed and walked around before they could be 
saddled. However, this night's experience was frequently re- 
peated during the raid. 

The exposure to the rigor of the weather and the long, 
hard marches by day and night, overtaxed the endurance of 
both men and horses. 

Hundreds of horses, breaking down, were abandoned along 
the road, their places being filled by animals, horses or mules, 
taken from the people living along the line of march, but al- 
together the people were benfitted, as the abandoned animals 
were superior to those taken, as a little rest was all they needed, 
About 300 fine horses of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, alone 
broke down, shot in action, etc, were lost on this raid. 

It was truly pathetic to see these old cavalry horses, after 
being abandoned, trying to hobble along after the command. 

A few days before the expedition left Memphis, the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry drew 300 fine fresh horses to replace 
poor mounts, but not being seasoned to the service they soon 
broke down and were abandoned, only about a dozen surviving 
the raid. 

On the 22d the command moved along the line of the Mem- 
phis and Charleston Railroad to a point near Moscow, thence, 
on the 23d, southeast through Early Grove, Lamar and Salem, 
reaching Ripley about noon on the 24th. 

Up to this time no opposition was encountered. 

From Ripley two detachments were sent out, one from the 
First brigade, under Major VanRensalaer, to Booneville, on the 
Mobile and Ohio Railroad, to destroy it and the Confederate 
States property there, with orders to rejoin the command at 
Bllistown, 20 miles south of Ripley, the other detachment, 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry, under Captain Search, was sent to 
strike the same road at Guntown, and rejoin the main column 
at Ellistown. Both of these detachments were successful, the 
former capturing and destroying a large quantity of quarter- 
master's stores and five cars, besides cutting the telegraph wires. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 221 

'burning railroad bridge, trestle-work, and capturing 20 prisoners. 

The Fourth Illinois Cavalry detachment 'destroyed the rail- 
road track and telegraph line at Guntown. In the meantime 
the main column, after a few hours rest, left Ripley, moving 
toward Tupelo, where it arrived on the afternoon of the 25th. 
From this point the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Funk, commanding, was sent to destroy the bridge and 
trestle-work over Old Town Creek. At the same time Colonel 
Karge, commanding First brigade, moved rapidly on Verona 
Station, seven miles south, information having been obtained 
that a force of 700 dismounted cavalry, (belonging to For- 
rest's command, was stationed at that place, guarding an im- 
mence amount of C. S. A. supplies. The brigade charged into 
Verona about 10 o'clock that night, completely surprising the 
garrison, who could make but slight resistance, but aided by 
the darkness the most of them escaped into the woods. 

This affair resulted in the easy capture of the town together 
with eight store-houses filled with fixed ammunition, estimated 
at 300 tons, 5,000 stand of small-arms, new carbines, 8,000 
sacks of shelled corn, a large quantity of wheat, an immense 
amount of Quartermaster's stores — clothing, camp and garri- 
son equippage, a train of 16 cars, and 200 army wagons. 
These wagons were the same that Forrest captured from Gen- 
era^ Sturgis in his unfortunate Guntown expedition in 'the 
preceding June. After completely destroying all this property, 
together with the buildings, depot and telegraph office, the brig- 
ade started to rejoin the main column, leaving the fire burning. 

The conflagration wasi awe-inspiring (beyond' description, 
the flames, leaping skyward lighted the command on its way for 
many miles, while the terrific explosion of the ammunition, the 
bursting of shells and the roar and hissing of the flames created 
a wild and wierd scene that must linger, long in the minds of all 
who witnessed it. 

On the morning of the 26th the command left Tupelo. 
The Third brigade was ordered to proceed down the railroad 
and destroy the bridges, trestle-work, water tanks, etc. On ar- 
riving at Shannon the brigade surprised and captured a large 
train of cars containing 100 new wagons which were on their 



222 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

way to Forrest's cavalry, besides a large amount of quarter- 
master's and commissary stores, all of which were destroyed. 
In this work the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry took an active 
part. When the main column reached Shannon, the Third 
brigade was relieved by the Second brigade, the Third brigade 
being ordered to proceed down the railroad, destroying it as it 
went, while the balance of the command moved forward on the 
road to Okolona, and camped that night on Chawappa Creek. 
On that day many miles of railroad and a number of bridges 
were destroyed. Major Main, with the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry was ordered to destroy the railroad and bridges between 
Tupelo and Verona, while Captain 'Search, with the Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry, was sent to cut the railroad between Verona 
and Shannon, and Major Wood, with the Second Wisconsin 
Cavalry, was sent to destroy the railroad south of Shannon. These 
detachments of the Third brigade marched all night to rejoin the 
main column, which was found in camp on Chawappa Creek. 

On the morning of the 27th the command moved out at an 
early hour, the Second brigade in advance, and after proceeding 
a few miles the enemy was encountered, when some skirmishing 
ensued, the enemy falling back before the steady advance of our 
troops. When near Okolona a rebel courier was captured with 
dispatches for the commander of the troops in Okolona. The 
dispatches stated that 1,300 infantry would re-enforce him from 
Mobile by railroad. 

A scout was sent forward to reconnoitre the ground, who 
returned with a favorable report. This same scout was sent 
from this place to Memphis with dispatch to General Dana. 
He had some narrow escapes, being captured once and carried 
into the rebel lines and searched, but no papers being found 
on him, he was permitted to go his way, telling his captors 
that he was a good rebel and a citizen. A fight was now an- 
ticipated, and the order was given to close up in column of 
squadrons. The command forward given, and the long col- 
umn moved out over the prairie in perfect order, with banners 
gaily fluttering in the breeze. 

Okolona is situated on a level prairie of considerable extent, 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 223 

and was distant about a mile from the point where our cav- 
alry moved to the attack. 

As the long column emerged from the woods, unfolding like 
the coils of a huge serpent, the command closed up in column 
of squadrons. The flags were unfurled, sabres flashed in the 
sunlight, bugles sounded "trot," then "gallop," and thus set in 
motion, the ground trembled beneath the tread of the charging 
battalions.. The sight was grand, arousing all the martiryl 
spirit of the troopers, and one never to be forgotten. 

As the column neared the town it divided, reaching out in 
two mighty wings that threatened to crush everything within 
its deadly embrace. 

The enemy looked on in awed 'silence, not a gun was fired, 
then a white flag floated over the doomed garrison, which 
surrendered before the blow fell. 

The promised re-inforcements had not arrived. Okolona 
with its immense stores of army supplies and many prisoners 
were captured without a struggle. 

The depot, army supplies and all the government property 
were destroyed by fire. 

During the work of destruction a long train of cars, bring- 
ing the promised re-inforcements, came in sight, but, on see- 
ing the condition of things, it backed away. Telegraph dis- 
patches from Confederate sources were intercepted at this place. 
One dispatch instructed the commanding officer at Egypt Sta- 
tion to hold that place at all hazards and stating that re-inforce 
ments were being hurried forward to him by rail. 



the; fight at egypt station. 

Leaving Okolona, the command camped that night about 
five miles from Egypt Station. The command was now in the 
heart of the enemy's country. The rebel forces were closing in 
around us, and were making strenuous efforts to concentrate 
their forces and turn back the raiding column. 

During the night many deserters from 1}he garrison at 



224 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Egypt Station came into our camp, many of whom were Union 
soldiers who had been taken prisoners and subsequently enlisted 
in the rebel army rather than suffer confinement in rebel prisons. 
Many of these men found friends and old comrades among 
our men, and their meeting was heartfelt and joyful. 

The morning of December 28th, 1864, dawned bright and 
clear, finding every officer and man alert, for all knew well what 
work lay before them, and all realized, doubtless that might be 
the last sunrise they would ever look upon, and, alas for many 
of them it was their last day on earth, for the sun went down 
that day on the fresh upturned sod beneath which many of 
them were hastily buried. 

The command was early in the saddle, the First brigade 
^taking ifhe advance, the Third brigade following, wtfth the 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry on the right, the Second brigade, 
or a part of it, remaining in the rear to guard prisoners and the 
pack train. The first brigade soon encountered the enemy's 
cavalry, which being ably handled by its commander, General 
Gholson, stubbornly contested the ground, but the First brig- 
ade pressed on, the sharp crack of their carbines being answered 
by the defiant yells of the enemy as they retreated from tree to 
tree, giving shot for shot. 

Emerging from the timber into the open prairie, Egypt Sta- 
tion, with its formidable defenses, depot, and a few scattering 
buildings, came into view a mile or so distant. On being driven 
out of the woods into the open prairie, the rebel cavalry fell 
back under cover of the guns of the fort. 

The First brigade on reaching the open ground, closed up 
in column of squadrons and charged the stockade directly in front, 
while the Third brigade diverged to the right, the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry coming into position on the south side of the 
stockade. The Fourth Illinois Cavalry, however, having been 
detached as the brigade came into action, became hotly engaged 
with the rebel cavalry, driving them back and around to the rear 
of the stockade, where they mortally wounded General Gholson, 
and killed and wounded many of his men. In the meantime the 
First brigade received a disastrous check. As this brigade 
charged the stockade one thousand muskets belched forth a 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 225 

murderous fire through the loop-holes of the stockade, before 
which many men and horses went down. 

At this critical juncture Major Main, commanding Third U. 
S. Colored Cavalry, was ordered to dismount his men and 
charge the stockade on the south side, which order was prompt- 
ly executed, the men responding with a yell as they came to the 
front midst a shower of bullets, but before they reached the 
fort a white flag was hoisted over it in token of surrender, when 
the firing ceased and the fort surrendered. 

To the Fourth Illinons Cavalry, however, more than to any 
other portion of the command is due the credit of hastening 
the surrender. This regiment, riding down the rebel cavalry, 
swung around to the rear of the stockade, which being open and 
unprotected presented a good point of attack, which the Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry was not slow to take advantage of, and with their 
customary dash they charged into the gap. Thus assailed in front 
and flank by the Fourth Illinois Cavalry and the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, the garrison hastened to avert the final knock- 
out blow by hoisting a white flag. 

The surrender, however, was effected none too soon, as 
almost simultaneously with the raising of the white flag over the 
fort, a 12 pound shot came hurtling through the air, heralding 
the approach of the promised re-inforcements. As the train bearing 
these re-inforcements slowed up about half a mile from the fort, 
it was discovered that they had two pieces of artillery, which were 
mounted on a flat car in front of the engine. The train backed 
up to the edge of the woods, where the troops, several reg- 
iments of infantry, were disembarked and formed line of battle 
on the open prairie, deployed a heavy skirmish line, and ad- 
vanced in battle front. In the meantime the two pieces of 
artillery on the flat-car kept up a rapid fire, evidently meant 
as a hluff, as they did no damage, except to the railroad track. 
To have trainedtheir guns directly on our men would have en- 
dangered the lives of their own men, now prisoners in and about 
the fort. As the enemy continued to advance from the woods, 
Major Main was ordered to move with his regiment, the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry, and hold them in check, but to avoid 
bringing on an engagement if possible. The regiment, 800 strong 



226 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

moved out over the prairie in column of squadrons in echelon, pre- 
senting a formidable appearance. On nearing the enemy, one 
company was deployed as skirmishers,, and wiere soon ex}- 
changing shots with the enemy, who still continuing to advance, 
the skirmishers were recalled, and the regiment moved forward 
front into line with sabres drawn, at which the enemy, evidently 
expecting to be charged and not relishing the sight of so 
much cold steel, feel back to their cars, where they reformed 
under cover of the woods. In the mean time the dead were 
being buried, the wounded cared for, and the prisoners marched 
to the rear. Major Main received orders to hold his position 
until the entire command had withdrawn, then to follow in 
the rear, which he did, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
being the last to leave the scene of their late engagement. The 
enemy were in no condition to follow. The Union loss in this 
engagement was 70 killed and wounded, thirty of the wound- 
ed, too severely hurt to be moved, had to be left "behind. 
Besides this, the command lost over 100 horses killed. 

The enemy's loss was, prisoners between 800 and 1,000 
killed and wounded 60 or more, among the killed being their 
commanding officer, General Gholson.. The command bivouae- 
ed that night near Houston, the night being well advanced 
when the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry reached the camping 
place. 

Resuming the march on the morning of the 29th, the com- 
mand passed through Houston, from which place two detach- 
ments were sent ont, one going toward West Point, and the 
other toward Pontotoc. 

Orders were given to confiscate blankets, shoes, etc., for the 
use of the prisoners, who were in a deplorable state of desti- 
tution. This day's march was without incident, and the com- 
mand camped that night near Bieillfontain, capturing a few 
prisoners on the way. 

Among the prisoners captured on the 30th was the notorious 
Tom Ford, whose business was to run down and conscript 
Union men. 

He was known to have killed several Union men. He was 
placed under special guard but managed to make his escape. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 227 

From Bellfontain a detachment was sent toward Starkville 
to threaten the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, while another de- 
tachment was sent to Bankston, where a large manufacturing 
establishment was in operation, turning out one thousand yards 
of cotton cloth and 2,000 pains of shoes per day. 

The detachment reached the town late in the night and found 
the place as quiet as a graveyard, the inhabitants being in 
their beds, sleeping. 

In addition to the factory there was a large flour mill, all 
of which was completely destroyed by setting fire to the build- 
ing. Over 500 hands were employed in these mills. When 
the fire was well underway, the superintendent of the factory 
rushed out in his night clothes, swearing and threatening the 
night watchman, and demanding to know why he was making 
no attempt to put the fire out, but on seeing the soldiers he 
sought the commanding officer, who told him that, the night 
being cold, he had started the fire that his men might warm 
themselves. "Hell and damnation," said the superintendent, 
"would you burn the factory to have a fire just to warm your- 
selves ?" 

The Mayor of the town also put in an appearance, and with 
all the grandiloquent pomposity of a Mississippi magistrate, 
demanded the warrant for such high-handed proceedings, and 
choking with suppressed indignation, exclaimed, "Be Gawid, 
sah, it's agin the rules of civilized warfare. I shall report this 
outrage, sah, to my Government, sah, to my Government, the 
Confederate States of America, sah." 

The work of destruction being completed, the command took 
its departure, leaving his honor, the Mayor, fairly frothing at 
the mouth. 



A TKRRIBLE SLAUGHTER. 



The command left Bellfontain on the morning of the 31st, 
taking the road to Middletown, reaching Lodi about noon. At 
or near Lodi one thousand fat hogs were captured. These hogs 
were enroute to the Confederate army. 



228 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

The capture of this immense herd of swine seemed at first 
sight like a veritable bonanza, as pork was worth at that time, 
according to rebel quotations, $5.00 per pound. If driven to 
Vicksburg these hogs would be a valuable 'contribution to 
Uncle Sam's commissary. But, alas, they proved to be a., 
Jonah, taxed the patience of the command beyond endurance, 
and racked the brain of the General commanding as to what 
disposition could be made of them. Driving them through the 
enemy's country and fighting at the same time, proved im- 
practicable. His hogship's inclination to root and to go in the 
contrary direction called forth maledictions of the most lurid 
character, but no progress could be made. It would not do to 
turn them adrift for the enemy to gather up again, so in sheer 
desperation it was decided that his hogship must be put to death, 
therefore the edict went forth that the hogs must be sacrificed 
on the grounds of military necessity, in fact to be shot to death. 
Consequently the whole squealing herd was rounded up and 
the death sentence carried into effect. Several companies of 
the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry were detailed as executioners. 
When the slaughter was completed one thousand fat hogs lay 
dead on the bloody field. 

There was considerable speculation as to the immediate or 
remote effect all this lubricating material would have on the 
soil. Some advanced the opinion that years hence rich land 
oil wells would be discovered there. It was the general opinion, 
however, that the saughter would afford a season of feasting 
for the buzzards. 



SUFFERING AMONG THF, PRISONERS. 

The prisoners became burdensome and greatly impeded the 
progress of the command. The weather was cold, snow falling 
on several occasions. Many of the prisoners were without shoes, 
and all were scantily clothed, and but for the kindness of the 
Union soldiers, sharing their blanketts with them, the suffering 
would have been much more intense. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 229 

The loss of so many horses, killed in action, broke down by 
hard riding, and abandoned, left many men dismounted, which 
also crippled the movement of the command. Wagons and 
vehicles of every kind and description were pressed into service 
to carry the sick and wounded soldiers and the foot-sore pris- 
oners. To facilitate the movements of the command a certain 
number of troopers were required to dismount and march on 
foot, exchanging places alternately with an equal number of 
prisoners who were least able to walk. This arrangement caused 
some dissatisfaction among the soldiers, but on the wnole they 
submitted good-naturedly. 

The command was further handicapped by an army of re- 
fugees, principally colored people, men, women and children of 
all ages and condition. These people had joined the column 
from time to time until they numbered well on to twenty thous- 
and, they had to be looked after and provided for. They were 
assigned a place in the column, and an officer with a corps of 
assistants was detailed to take charge of them. 

The, column, including prisoners and refugees, extended 
miles in length and presented a grotesque appearance as it wound 
its weary way over hill and dale and through long stretches 
of pine woods, whose sombre silence, broken only by the sough- 
ing of the wind through the pine needles, seemed to whisper 
awful forebodings. 



the; fight at franklin. 

The Third U. S. to the Front. 

Fighting at Close range. Revolver and sabre play an active part. 

On the morning of January 1, 1865, the command sep- 
arated, the First and Second brigades, with the prisoners and 
refugees, moved toward Benton, while the Third Brigade, un- 
incumbered and stripped for action, was sent down the line of 
the Mississippi Gentral Railroad, with instructions to destroy 
that road as far south as was found practicable, and then rejoin 
the main column at Benton. 



230 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Leaving Winona Station, going south along the line of the 
railroad, many miles of the road was destroyed. A detach- 
ment of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, Captain Ira Smith com- 
manding, was sent to destroy the railroad and bridges from 
Winona to Vaiden, a distance of 12 miles. The Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, Major Ed. M. Main commanding, was sent 
to destroy the railroad, bridges and water tanks, from Vaiden 
to a point five miles south of West Station, a distance of 18 
miles, where the two detachments rejoined the balance of the 
brigade, and went into camp for the night. 

On the morning of January 2d, the brigade left the rail- 
road, moving toward Benton, on the Franklin turnpike. 

Franklin was a small hamlet situated about half way be- 
tween West Station and Benton, on the Franklin turnpike, the 
distance between the two points being 45 or 50 miles. The 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry had the head of the column, with 
Company G, Captain Coykendall commanding, in the extreme 
advance. Information gathered from different sources indicated 
the close proximity of a considerable force of the enemy, cavalry, 
and it was expected that, being in sufficient force, they would 
intercept the brigade at some favorable point on the road. There- 
fore the regiment was held well in hand, ready to meet any sud- 
den attack. 

When quite near to Franklin, which was 'situated at the 
junction of two or more roads, where there was a church, the 
advance, under Captain Coyendall, was charged upon by a com- 
pany of rebel cavalry, who came sweeping around the point 
where the roads came together at the church, with the evident 
intention of breaking the head of our column, but Captain Coy- 
kendall was an officer not easily stampeded, and with splendid 
bravery and coolness he met the charge with a volley that brought 
them up with a round turn, killing their commanding officer 
and several of his men, which he followed up with a charge 
that sent them back in great confusion. 

When the attack was made Colonel Osband was riding at the 
head of the column with Major Main, and together they galloped 
to the front, the regiment following. A hasty survey of the 
situation disclosed the fact that the enemy was in large force,. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 231 

and in position at the church and under cover of a V shaped 
piece of woods lying between the two roads, which came to- 
gether at the church. The wooded space between these roads 
being but a few hundred yards in extent at this point. To our 
right was an open field extending -around to the other side of the 
church. A single glance showed that the enemy bad chosen 
well in selecting this position, but they counted too much on the 
simplicity of the foe that they were to meet. The advantage 
to be gained by securing possession of the woods and forcing 
the enemy into the open was at once apparent. Prompt action 
is the key to success in a cavalry fight of this kind, and no one 
realized the force of it more than Colonel Osband, and none was 
more quick to seize an opportunity. The rebels must have 
thought we were greenhorns if they supposed we would poke 
our heads around that point of timber only to have them shot 
off. They also showed an overweening confidence in their own 
prowess, or sadly underrated the military skill of their opponents 
by failing to properly protect their flanks. 

So while they were waiting for us to come out in the open, 
eight companies of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry were hastily 
dismounted and sent through the woods, under Captain Emery, to 
fall on their flank and rear, at the same time Major Main, with the 
remaining four companies mounted, moved forward on the road 
toward the church. Colonel Osband, with the Eleventh Illinois 
Cavalry, took the open field to the right, and, making a slight 
detour, gained a position in rear of the church, from where he 
opened a deadly cross fire on the enemy. The flank attack by 
our dismounted men under Captain Emery, was a complete 
surprize to the enemy, turning their flank and throwing them 
into some confusion, which, followed up by the charge of our 
mounted men, led by Major Main, drove them in confusion from 
their position. 

But being largely re-inforced by fresh troops coming upon the 
field, they made a gallant charge, recovering some of the ground 
lost, and forcing Major Main to abandon the bridge he had taken 
in the first charge, his flank being threatened and his command 
in danger of being cut off. 

The timely support, however, of a detachment of the Fourth 



232 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 



Illinois Cavalry, under the splendid leadership of Captain Merri- 
man and Smith', turned the tide of battle in our favor at this 
point. Captains Merriman and Smith led their men into the 
thickest of the fight, and by their dash and daring contributed 
largely to the victory won. 

With the support of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry detachment, 
Major Main again led his black troopers to the charge, and suc- 
ceeded, by the splendid dash of Lieutenant's Calais Matthews, 
and others, in retaking the bridge. 

In the first charge, Major Main, Lieutenants Calais, Mat- 
thews and a colored 'sergeant (name not now recalled) crossed 
the bridge to find themselves face to face with a line of rebel 
cavalry. Wheeling their horses midst a shower of bullets from 
the enemy, they spurred back across the bridge closely pursued 
by the enemy. Thus riding neck and neck, the uplifted sabre 
of a rebel Major was about to descend on the head of Lieutenant 
Calais when it was stayed by the timely shot from the revolver 
of the colored isergeant, which put the rebel Major hors de com- 
bat. In the meantime the dismounted force under Captain! 
Emery, were pressing the enemy back in their immediate front, 
but not without serious loss, Lieutenant Pettengill and several 
men being killed, and Lieutenant Farley and seven men wounded. 

A portion of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, also dismounted, 
under Lieutenants Donica and Norton, did some splendid fight- 
ing, driving the enemy from some log houses in which they had 
taken shelter. Finally the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, commanded 
by Colonel Funk, executed a flank movement that broke the 
enemy's formation, compelling him to withdraw from the fight 
for repairs, to which he did not again return, evidently having 
enough of it. 

The enemy's loss in this fight, as subsequently verified, was 
75 killed, including quite a number of commissioned officers, 
while their loss in wounded must have been heavy, many being 
left on the field, and others were removed during the fight. 

Our loss was comparatively light. The loss of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry was one commissioned officer and five men 
killed, one commissioned officer and eisfht men wounded. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 233 

its most efficient officers. He was temporarily acting Adjutant, 
and when Lieutenant Farley fell, wounded, Leaving that company 
without a commisioned offieeer, Lieutenant Pettengill asked and 
received permission to take command of the company, and was 
killed almost immediately thereafter, shot through the breast 
while leading the company against the enemy. He died almost 
instantly, never speaking after he fell. His body was taken 
along with the regiment to Vicksburg, a distance of over one 
hundred miles, arriving at Vicksburg, his remains were placed 
in a metallic case and sent to bis friends in Illinois. The 
numerous examples of personal bravery displayed by officers and 
men, 'both Union and Confederate, entitles the fight at Frank- 
lin to rank with the most spirited cavalry fights of the war. 

An officer connected with this expedition, writing of the fight 
at Franklin, says, "Too much praise cannot he awarded the 
Third brigade for their conduct in this fight, and particularly 
that of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, commanded by Major 
Main. They alone repulsed several desperate charges. Their 
adjutant was killed. Colonel Osband, commanding the brigade, 
was all fight." 

As the enemy .showed no disposition to renew the fight. Col- 
onel Osband withdrew his forces from the field, not, however, 
until our dead were buried and the wounded properly cared for. 
The enemy's dead and wounded were left where they fell to be 
cared for by their friends. 

The sad duty of burying our dead comrades being performed, 
the command resumed its march, taking the road to Benton, the 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry remaining well in the rear to watch the 
movements of the enemy, it being expected they would follow and 
harass the command, but happily nothing more was seen of them. 
The brigade rejoined the main column late that night, having 
marched about 50 miles that day, two hours of the time being 
consumed in the fight at Franklin. 

Colonel Noble, Third Iowa Cavalry, rejoined the column 
at Benton, he having been tsent from Winona to Grenada to des- 
troy the railroad and public property at that pace. At Grenada 
he found in the office of the Grenada Picket, a paper of the day 
before, in which was an article stating that the "yankee raid had 



234 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

played out, that Grierson's vandals had been repulsed and were 
making for Memphis with all speed." After reading the .article 
Colonel Noble remarked that it was not General Grierson's in- 
tention to slight them, and ordered the destruction of their press 
and type. 



HEADED FOR VICKSBURG. 

Visions of rest and full rations cheer the weary and hungry 
troopers. 

From Benton, the whole command, now reunited, resumed the 
march on the morning of January 3d, going in the direction of 
Vicksburg. The march this day was without incident except 
some slight skirmishing by the advance guard, the command 
camping for the night at Mechanicsburg. 

From Mechanicsburg the command proceeded to Clear Creek, 
where it camped on the night of the 4th, having marched 25 miles 
that day. 

At Clear Creek the command was met by a supply train with 
rations and forage, which was sent out from Vicksburg, General 
Grierson having dispatched a request for the supplies some days 
previous. 

The timely arrival of these supplies was hailed with mani- 
festations of much joy by all — soldiers, prisoners, and refugees, 
whose fast had not been broken for twenty-four hours. 

On the 5th, after a march of fifteen miles over muddy roads 
and in a cold, drenching rain, the command entered Vicksburg, 
where the raiders were received with loud acclamation of wel- 
come. 

Within the walled city of Vicksburg the command was given 
a short season of rest before taking boats for Memphis. 

During the sixteen days consumed in making this raid the 
command marched over 500 miles, fought two decisive battles, 
engaged in almost continuous skirmishing, destroyed many miles 
of railroad and millions of dollars worth of property— army sup- 
plies, etc., and captured over 1,000 prisoners. 

This raid had a salutary effect on the minds of the people 




W. H. CHAPIN, 
2nd I.ieut. Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 235 

living within the zone of its operations. It impressed them with 
the power of the Federal Government. The sight of the old 
flag, seen by many of them for the first time since the war began, 
filled them with mingled emotions of pride and resentment. 

They had seen their supposedly invincible legions fleeing 
before the steady advance of Grierson's raiders, their flag — the 
flag of secession — borne down and trampled in the dust. And 
after all, what traditions clustered around this new flag to in- 
spire their devotion? What great principles did it stand for? 
Oh, had they been following the teachings of false prophets? 
The sight of the old flag recalled memories of the past, revived 
associations well nigh forgotten in the turmoil of secession. 

Yes, the old flag— the star spangled banner, with her stars 
all there, was the one their fathers loved and fought under, that 
tbey carried to victory on the plains of Chalmette, and planted on 
the walls of Chapultepec. That flag, with the stars and stripes, 
stood for the Union. It was endeared to them by every tie of 
patriotism and association. 

Oh, what was it Jackson said? O, it comes back to them 
now. "By the eternal, the Union must and shall be preserved." 

So a change came over the spirit of these people — the mists 
of secession was dispelled by the white light of nobler ideals and 
loftier purposes. 



CHAPTER XIX. 



REPORTS OF 1 THE GRIERSON RAID FROM THE REBELLION RECORDS. 

REPORT OF COLONEL E. D. OSBAND, COMMANDING THIRD 

BRIGADE. 

Headquarters Third Brigade, Cavalry Division, 

Department of the Mississipi. 

Memphis, Tenn., January 13, 1865. 

Captain : — I have the honor to make the following report of 
the part taken by the Third Brigade in the recent raid from 
Memphis, Tenn., to Vicksburg, Miss. The brigade moved from 



236 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

Memphis, as the rear of the Cavalry Division, on the morning 
of December 21, 1864, with tien days' rations and 120 rounds of 
ammunition per man, and numbered 47 officers and 1,679 enlisted 
men. At noon of the 24th of December, being at Ripley, Miss., I 
sent, 'by ordlar of the general commanding, 200 men of the Fourth 
Illinois Calvary, Capt. A. T. Search commanding, to cut the Mo- 
bile & Ohio Railroad. Moving directly -east, about midnight 
they cut the railroad midway between Guntown and Baldwyn 
Stations. After burning two bridges and tearing up one-quarter 
of a mile of track, they continued their march and joined the 
column at Ellistown at noon of the 25th, having captured seven 
prisoners and destroyed twenty-four stand of arms. 

On the night of the 25th of December the brigade encamped 
three miles from Tupelo. By order of the general commanding, 
I sent forward thie Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, Lieut. Col. Otto 
Funk© commanding, who, after a night of most unusual exertion, 
completely destroyed -the railroad bridge over Old Town Creek, 
900 feet long, and tore up half a mile of track. 

On the 26th I sent the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry down the 
railroad from Tupelo to Verona, the Fourth Illinois Cavalry from 
Verona to Shannon, and the Second Wisconsin Cavalry from 
Shannon as far below as they were able to go that night. 

From Tupelo to Shannon about 2,500 feet of bridges and tres- 
tle-work were destroyed. The Fourth Illinois Cavalry bruned 
ten railroad cars loaded with wagons at Verona, captured twenty 
loaded wagons, teams, etc., just south of that station, and de- 
stroyed repair shops and vast amount of material used by Gen- 
eral Forrest at Verona. The Second Wisconsin Cavalry burned 
two Government warehouses at Shannon filled with quartermas- 
ter's stores, 300 stand of arms, 13 cars loaded with timber, and 
the important railroad bridges over the Sheawassa and Coonewar 
Creeks, many trestle-works and culverts, besides capturing one 
First Lieutenant and six enlisted men. 

On the 27th, the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry totally destroyed the 
important bridges over the Chewappa and Tallaballah Creeks, 
each 200 feet in length, cutting down such parts as could not be 
burned. During the day the rear guard skirmished with about 
sixty of the enemy. 

On the 28th I sent, as ordered, six companies of the Second 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 237 

Wisconsin Cavalry, under Maj. William Woods, to hold Pikeville. 
Nearing Egypt Station, the column was closed up, and the skir- 
mishing of the First Brigade becoming exceedingly warm, the 
pack train in my front being in confusion, blocking up the road, 
I took the field with the Fourth and Eleventh Illinois Cavalry and 
Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, leaving six companies of the Second 
Wisconsin Cavalry, under Capt. N. DeForest, to guard brigade 
pack train and prisoners. 

Moving rapidly toward the scene of the engagement, I was 
ordered by Coloroeil Karge to support his right flank, held by the 
Fourth Missouri Cavalry, who were carrying on a fight with 
Brigadier-General Gholson 's command, who were inflicting great 
loss to the Fourth Missouri Cavalry from the shelter of a railroad 
embankment, without danger to theirnselves. Without firing one 
shot, the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, having formed line on the right 
of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, charged, utterly routing Gholson 
and pursuing his flying squadrons to the road beyond. The re- 
volver and sabre were freely used by our men, fifteen or twenty 
of the enemy being either killed or wounded, including Briga- 
dier-General Gholson, mortally wounded, one Lieutenant-Colonel, 
five line officers and ten enlisted men were captured. In this 
brilliant attack we lost two mien, severely wounded ; the enemy, 
their killed, wounded and prisoners, the total rout and dispersion 
of their entire cavalry force, had. their left turned, and the retreat 
to the swamp, before this, open to the garrison of the stockade, 
entirely and permanently cut off. 

Immediately to the rear, and supporting the Fourth Illinois 
Cavalry, I moved the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, but finding the 
Fourth able to meet all the force of the enemy on that side of the 
railroad, I changed the direction of the Eleventh Illinois Cav- 
alry by a left wheel and moved them up to the rear of the houses 
situated 'to the right of the stockade, which furnished them ad- 
mirable cover for their horses, intending to attack the stockade 
with them dismounted. The regiment was here ordered to move 
to the rear of the stockade mounted, and in making 'the movement 
were exposed to a heavy fire, suffering a loss of one man killed, 
two officers and thirteen enlisted men wounded. Forming in the 
new position, Colonel Funk dismounted his men and advanced 
to assault the stockade, but before his men came within ran^e it 



238 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

had surrendered. I moved the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry to 
the position recently occupied by the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, 
under cover of the houses, and dismounted them. The dismounted 
column formed and commenced to move on the stockade, when it 
surrendered. Two companies Second Wisconsin Cavalry and two 
companies Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, were, by direction of 
the general commanding-, placed on the extreme left of our line ; 
but, although they had a few horses wounded, they did not to 
any extent participate in the engagement. 

Nine .enlisted men of the Eleventh Illinois Volunteer Cavalry 
were too badly wounded to be moved, and after their wounds 
were dressed by our surgeon, they were left at Egypt Station. 
The Second Wisconsin Cavalry was immediately detached to 
guard the prisoners, and did not afterward participate in the 
movement of the brigade. 

On the morning of January 1, 1865, I moved, by order of 
the general commanding, from Winona Station down to the line 
of the Mississippi Central Railroad, flanking the line of march 
of the main column. I sent strong dismounted details from the 
Fourth Illinois Cavatlry and the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
from Winona Station, through Vaiden and West Station, to a 
point five miles below the latter place, a distance of twenty-nine 
■miles. They totally destroyed two and a half miles of track, 
nineteen bridges, twelve culverts, together with station-house, 
water-tanks, etc. Ten of these bridges were important structures, 
and must require thirty days to repair. On the morning of the 2d, 
learning that the Confederates were concentrating a isitrong force 
at Goodman Station, I left the line of the railroad and moved on 
the Franklin pike in the direction of Ebenezer and Benton. When 
foalf a mile from Franklin my advance of the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry was charged by a strong force of the enemy. The charge 
was repulsed, and the rebels driven from their advanced position. 
The force proved to be those of Brigadier-General Wirt Adams, 
1,500 strong, who, coming from Goodman, had pushed one regi- 
ment to a junction of the roads, covering them in some close 
timber skirting the road and about a church surrounded by shrub- 
bery. A flank movement of two squadrons of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry, commanded by Capt. Harry Fretz, Company L, 
dislodged them from the chuirch, while seven squadrons of the 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 289 

Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, under Major E. M. Main, dislodged 
them from the close timber by falling upon their flank and rear, 
thus compelling- them to fall back to a bridge over a small stream, 
where General Adams had concentrated the main body of his 
men. Major Main immediately charged and carried the bridge, 
but, in turn, was driven over it in some confusion by the enemy, 
who, being heavily re-inforced, outnumbered him three to one. 

We should here have lost numbers of our men except for the 
most determined gallantry of our officers, particularly prominent 
among whom was Lieut. Frank W. Calais, Company A, Third U. 
S. Colored Cavalry. In the meantime, the Eleventh Illinois Cav- 
alry moved to our extreme right, where they arrived in time to 
Check a flank movement of the 'enemy. After sharp fighting, the 
movement was checked, their left turned, and their forces driven 
to the main body at the bridge. 

The Fourth Illinois Cavalry, moving promptly to the support 
of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, met and repulsed a flank 
movement of the enemy directed to our left, when quickly dis- 
mounting and jumping from tree to tree, soon drove the rebels 
to the cover of the house across the creek. 

At this time, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry again charged 
and carried the bridge, from which they were not again driven 
during the fight. 

The desperate nature of the fighting, the superiority of num- 
bers displayed by General Adams, and a summons from the gen- 
eral commanding to immediately join the column, now fifteen 
miles to our front and right, induced me to attempt to withdraw 
my men. Fortunately, General Adams concluded to withdraw 
his men, and we mutually separated without further fighting. 

One enlisted man from the Fourth Illinois Cavalry and one 
from the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, too severely wounded to 
be moved, were left at Franklin. Our loss was 1 officer killed and 1 
wounded, and three enlisted men killed, sieven wounded and two 
missing. The enemy left one major, one lieutenant, and fifty 
men dead upon the field, aside from which we took seven prison- 
ers. It was the hardest fought cavalry fight in which the brigade, 
as such, were ever engaged. 

I cannot forbear the mention of the loss sustained by the death 
of First Lieut, and Acting Adjt. Seward H. Pettingill, Third 



240 Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 

U. S. Colored Cavalry ; he was thoroughly the embodiment of the 
accomplished gentleman and the dashing soldier. 

Moving through Ebenezer, I joined the main column at Ben- 
ton the same night, having been engaged with the enemy one hour 
and a half and marched forty-three miles. My horses are worn 
out with the labor of fifty days' consecutive, riding, and need rest 
and care. My men are unusually well, not more than twenty be- 
ing admitted to the hospital from both sick and wounded. 

I desire to thank Capt. John F. Wallace, Fourth Illinois Cav- 
alry, acting aide-de-camp, for the very valuable services rendered 
throughout the expedition. 

Attention is called to enclosed reports of the regimental com- 
manders, also statement of Lieutenant Nesbet, Fifth Illinois Cav- 
alry. Very respectfully your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Col. Third U. S. Col. Cavalry, 
Commanding Third Brigade Cav. Div. 
Capt S. L. Woodward, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLV, Part 1, pp. 856-859.) 



REPORT OF CAPT. ANTHONY T. SEARCH, FOURTPI ILLINOIS CAVALRY. 

Vicksburg, Miss, January 10, 1865. 

Colonel: — I have the honor to report, in obedience to your 
orders, the part taken by my command, consisting of five com- 
panies and numbering 260 effective men, dn the recent cavalry 
raid through Northern Mississippi. 

At Ripley, fourteen miles east of Lamar, on the Mississippi 
Central Railroad, on the 24th ultimo, by order, I left the main 
column with 200 of my best mounted men and marched twenty- 
five miles east to the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, striking it about 
midnight between Ballwyn and Guntown Stations. After setting 
fire to two bridges, tearing up as much of the track as was pos- 
sible with the tools in our possession, and cutting the telegraph 
wire, I took up my line of march for Ellistown, sixteen miles 
diistant, where I rejoined the brigade at moon of the 25th. During 
this trip, which was unusually hard on the horses on account 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 24l 

of the excessively bad roads and the darkness of 'the night, we 
captured seven prisoners and destroyed twenty-six stand of arms. 

At Verona, on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, on the 26th, 1 
destroyed a train of twenty abandoned wagons, iloaded with pro- 
visions and clothing, and captured sixty head of mules. We 
reached Egypt Station, on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, in the 
forenoon of the 28th, and found the First Brigade, Colonel 
Karge commanding, engaged in a sharp fight with the enemy, 
who were well protected behind stockades and the railroad em- 
bankment, and were iseverely punishing our forces without loss 
to themselves. In obedience to your order, I moved my regi- 
ment and formed companies — E, Captain Smith commanding ; B, 
Captain Merriman ; A, Lieutenant Donica commanding — in line 
on the extreme right of the line formed by the First Bigade. sup- 
porting them by the two other companies — D, Lieutenant Taylor 
commanding, and C, First Sergeant Arnold commanding. Seeing 
at once that the enemy were securely posted out of sight and 
danger and behind the railroad embankment, I ordered a charge, 
for the purpose of dislodging them and turning their left. Not- 
withstanding the soft condition of the 'ground (a cultivated field), 
the charge was entirely successful The enemy were driven a 
distance of about 100 rods to the timber, Where a deep ditch 
checked our pursuit and enabled a majority of them to escape. 
We, however, captured fifteen, including a lieutenant-colonel and 
several line officers. Several were also killed and wounded, 
among them Brigadier-General Gholson, mortally wounded. My 
loss was very light — two men slightly wounded and seventeen 
horses killed and disabled. 

On the: morning of the 1st instant, I sent Captain Smith, with 
100 men, dismounted, from camp near Winona Station, on the 
Mississippi Central Railroad, to destroy the railroad between 
that point and Vaiden Station, a distance of twelve miles. This 
Avork was performed by Captain Smith with his usual energy. He 
burned nine bridges and six trestle-works, and tore up much of 
the track, rejoining the command a little after noon near Vaiden. 

In the engagement at Franklin, on the 2d instant, my regiment 
being in the rear, did not reach the field until some time after the 
fight began between the enemy and the Third U. S. Colored Cav- 
alry. On reaching the scene of action one company (E, Captain 



242 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Smith commanding) was ordered to go to the relief of Major 
Main, of the Third United States, who, with a detachment of his 
regiment, was holding the enemy in check at the bridge. Two 
other companies, A and B, under Captain Merriman, were ordered 
to move into the field to the right, to intercept flank movements 
from the enemy's left. Companies C and D remained to guard 
the pack train. 

After getting near the timber to the right, Captain Merriman 
ordered Companies A and B, under the immediate charge of 
Lieutenants Donica and Norton, to dismount and enter the tim- 
ber. They did so, moving up the stream and toward the bridge, 
near which the enemy were concealed in log houses and behind 
rail fences. Lieutenant Norton moved his company, B, under a 
sharp fire from the enemy, to a position opposite: the houses and 
posted his men behind trees and logs. Lieutenant Donica took a 
position a little farther to the right and across the creek. In this 
position these two companies engaged the enemy for nearly thirty 
minutes. The number of the enemy seemed so greatly superior 
to my own, and the firing became so severe, that I dispatched 
Lieutenant Hitt to ask for neHenforcemenits. He soon returned, 
however, with an order from you to withdraw my men and pro- 
tect the left flank of Major Main'is command, which was ordered 
back from the bridge. Fortunately, just after the order was re- 
ceived, the enemy retreated from the log bouses and fences in 
my front, or I could not have extricated my command from the 
position we occupied without severe loss. 

In this engagement I regret to record the ioss of 2 men killed 
and 1 wounded, not seriously. Captain Smith reports that from 
his position at the bridge he saw 9 of the enemy lying dead. 

■My regiment continued in the rear during the day, and appre- 
hending that we might be followed, I ordered Captain Smith to 
take Companies C and F, and form a strong extreme rear guard 
— a precaution that proved unnecessary,as the enemy did not make 
his appearance, doubtless having been too severely punished in 
the fight to be in a condition to follow us. From this time until 
our arrival at Vicksburg, on the evening of the 5th instant, my 
regiment had no' speoial duty to perform. 

The total number of animals captured during the raid, be- 
sides the 60 muiles captured at Verona, was 38 horses and 27 
mules ; making a total of 125 head. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 243 

In consequence of the rapid marching in the early part of the 
raid, some 75 or 80 of my horses became used up and had to be 
abandoned. 

I cannot conclude, colonel, without remarking that the con- 
duct of the officers and men of my 'regiment, both at Egypt and 
Franklin, was unexceptional, and characterized by their usual 
bravery and willingness to meet the foe. 

I remain, colonel, with sentiments of high esteem, very truly 
and respectfully yours, &c, 

A. T. Search, 

Captain, Commanding 

Fourth Illinois Cavalry. 
Colonel E. D. Osband, 

Commanding Third Brigade, Cavalry Div., 
Department of the Mississippi. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLV., Part 1, p. 859-861.) 



CHAPTER XX. 



EXPEDITION IN SOUTHEASTERN ARKANSAS AND NORTHEASTERN 
LOUISIANA, JANUARY 26TH TO FEBRUARY 10TH, 1865. 

This expedition, consisting of three brigades of cavalry, left 
Memphis, Tenn., on January 26th, 1865, on fifteen transports. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, Major Ed. M. Main com- 
manding, formed a part of the Third Brigade. Brevet Brigadier- 
General E. D. Osband commanded the expedition. The transports 
ran down the river to Eunice Landing, on the Arkansas side, 
where the troops were disembarked on the 28th, and marched to 
Bayou Macon, arriving there about 1 p. m. same day, and com- 
menced ferrying the command over the Biayou, which was not 
completed until the following morning, working all night by the 
light of fires kept 'burning on both sides of the Bayou. January 
29th, the command marched at 8 a. m. following the west bank 
of the Bayou to Masons Lake, thence southeasterly toward Bayou 
Bartholomew, which was reached about 2 p. m., where the com- 
mand camped for the night. The road from Mason's Lake to 



244 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Bayou Bartholomew ran through an almost impassable swamp, 
many of the 'houses mired down, and much difficulty was expe- 
rience! in getting the command through. 

On the 30th the command marched at 8 a. m. following the 
Bayou to Holloway's Ferry, a distance of 25 miles, capturing a 
few prisoners and a number of horses and mules. Detachments 
were sent out from this point to scorrt the country in different 
directions. These scouting parties brought in a number of horses 
and mules, and burnt a large flour mill, which was grinding meal 
for the rebel army. 

On the 31st, the command marched at an early hour, detach- 
ments being sent out on both flanks, with orders to join the main 
column at Turner's Woodyard, where the whole oommanl camped 
that night. One of the detachments, the Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 
captured a steamboat at Poplar Bluff, which was taking on a 
cargo of corn for the rebel forces at Camden. 

The captured steamboat was run down to Turner's Wood- 
yard and burnt, her officers and crew being made prisoners. 

A distillery, flour mill, and a quantity of cotton and corn, the 
property of the Confederate States Government, were also cap- 
tured and destroyed at Poplar Bluff. February 1st the command 
proceeded along the bayou to Knox's Ferry, thence to Bastrop, 
where it camped for the night, remaining there during the follow- 
ing day. On the 2d, while the command rested at Bastrop, a de- 
tachment of the Third Brigade, Colonel Funk commanding, was 
sent to Oak Ridge, where a force of the enemy under Colonel 
McNeil, was reported to be stationed, but on arrival at the place, 
Colonel Funk found no enemy ; McNeil's men had scattered in 
every direction. A few of them, however, were captured as they 
were straggling through the country. 

Moving at daylight on the morning of the 3d, the command 
marched to Point Pleasant, near which place it crossed the bayou 
and camped for the night. On the 4th, the command marched 28 
miles, and camped near the Louisiana State line. On the 5th the 
advance brigade reached Hamburg, Ark., late in the evening; the 
balance of the command, owing to the terrible condition of the 
roads and the swollen streams, did not get up until the next day. 

The command waited at Hamburg during the 6th for the 
stragglers to come up. February 7th, the 'command marched at 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 246 

an early hour, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry having the ad- 
vance, which reached Collon's Mill about dark that evening. The 
mill was grinding corn for the Confederate soldiers, a company 
of whom were guarding the mill ; they were driven off and the 
mill destroyed. The main column coming up, camped here for 
the night. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, however, was or- 
dered to move on a few miles and camp at a cross-roads, and, 
later, was ordered to move at daylight and proceed to find a place 
where the command could cross Bayou Bartholomew. A crossing 
was found, but, after ferrying a part of the regiment over, it was 
found impossible to proceed on account of the back water, re- 
turning, the regiment turned north, going up the west side of the 
-bayou to Shanghai, arriving there about noon, on the 9th. While 
at Shanghai the regiment was joined by the balance of the com- 
mand. 

Leaving Shanghai, the command proceeded to Bayou Bar- 
tholomew, distant about four miles, where a crossing was ef- 
fected under many difficulties. The bayou was bank-full, weather 
cold, a thin sheet of ice covering the surface of the water. The 
bayou was about 200 yards wide at this point. Volunteers were 
called for to ride in and test the crossing. One of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalrymen urged his horse into the stream, but only to 
meet his death in midstream, where his horse floundered, and 
both were drowned. Undaunted, however, by the fate of their 
comrade, others plunged in, and, after bravely battling with the 
ice and cold water, reached the opposite bank in safety ; then the 
whole command, one company at a time, swam over, when fir"es 
were built, and the men given time to dry and warm themselves. 
The command camped that night near the Hughes plantation. 

Quite a romance lurks around this old plantation, dating from 
the night the command camped there. Lieutenant Whiting, reg- 
imental Quartermaster of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 
formed the acquaintance of the young lady of the Hughes house- 
hold, Miss Anna Cheirs, the charming and accomplis'hed daughter 
of Mrs. Hughes by a former marriage, Mrs. Hughes being then 
the second time widowed. This brief and incidental meeting be- 
tween Miss Cheirs and Lieutenant Whiting, in the fullness of 
time ripened into mutual admiration, which culminated in mar- 
riage, thus forging another link in the chain that binds the North 



246 TliirJ U. S. Colored C avalry. 

and South together. Years after the war, while on a visit to the 
old 'home on Bayou Bartholomew, with his wife and son, Lieu- 
tenant Whiting died of malarial fever. 

On the 10th, the command resumed the march, crossing Bayou 
Macon about 11a. m., and reached Gaines' Landing, on the Mis- 
sissippi River, that evening, where the transports were waiting to 
take the command up the river to Memphis. 

The hardships, exposures and suffering endured on this raid 
surpasses any like experience of the war. The weather was cold, 
snow and sleet falling repeatedly. The spring rains had set in, 
rendering the roads well night impassable. The rivers and small 
streams were out of their banks, overflowing the bottom lands. 
Bridges were swept away, and crossings made extremely diffi- 
cult. Frequently the command would be out of sight of land for 
a whole day at a time. The horses splashed and floundered 
through mud and water from knee to belly deep. Where bridges 
were gone — swept away — swimming was the only alternative, 
and many men lost their lives in this way. Eight men of the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry alone, were drowned in swimming streams. 
No regular order of march could be maintained ; it was a sort of 
go as you please. Not much attention was paid to the usual route 
of travel as regarded roads. After one regiment had passed over 
the ground it was rendered too boggy for others to follow, so the 
command scattered, each regiment seeking a new route, thus 
leaving a wide trail, which could be traced years after the war. 

One incident happened that excited the sympathy of the en- 
tire command. On the 6th of February, while crossing a stream 
with muddy banks, acting Lieutenant David P. Sherfy's horse 
fell on him, breaking his leg. The accident occurred about 4 
p. m., and on being rescued from the mud and water, he w r as 
helped on his horse at his own request, and continued with his 
company until the command went into camp that night, when the 
surgeon set the broken bones and made him as comfortable as 
possible. 

It was proposed to leave him at some wayside house until he 
could be sent for, but he would not listen to it, declaring that he 
would ride Ms horse and keep with the command'. It being im- 
possible to procure any kind of a conveyance in that sparsely set- 
tled region, he was allowed to have his way. 'And so, with his 




DAVID P. SHERKY, alias GEO. W. GARBER, 
1st Sergt. Third IT. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 247 

broken leg well wrapped and padded with cotton, and a detail of 
men to take care of ham, he made the march to Gaines Landing, 
four days in the saddle with a broken leg. 

Slier fy was one of the white sergeants, and having been rec- 
ommended for promotion, was acting Lieutenant. He was a 
man with' a history. A native of Tennessee, he was living in Ar- 
kansas at the outbreak of the war, and incurring the ill-will of the 
ultra secessionists on account of his Union sentiments, he at- 
tempted to flee the country, but was hunted down, captured and 
forced to serve in the rebel army, from which he subsequently 
escaped, and made his way to the Union lines in southeast Mis- 
souri, traveling over 200 miles on foot, hiding in the woods by 
day and traveling by night. On reaching the Union lines, he en- 
listed in a company of Illinois Cavalry, under the name of George 
W Garber, assuming this name to hide his identity in case of being- 
captured by the enemy. Subsequently he became a member of 
the famous Eleventh Illinois Infantry, in which regiment he did 
gallant service, being promoted to the rank of sergeant for meri- 
torious conduct in action. He was discharged from the Eleventh 
Illinois Infantry to accept promotion in the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, coming to this regiment with testimonials of the highest 
character. 



SECOND LIEUTENANT DAVID P. SHEREY. 

Was born near Jonesborough, Washington County, State of 
Tennessee, October 19, 1839. At the outbreak of the war, he was 
living in Arkansas, where his loyalty to the Union, finding ex- 
pression in outspoken sentiments, brought down upon him the 
wrath of the ultra secessionists, and he, with others, was com- 
pelled to flee the cotintry, closely pursued by a band of partisan 
rangers, who captured a number of the party and put them to 
death. The subject of this sketch, being well mounted, led his 
pursuers a long chase. With a view to reaching the Union lines, 
he shaped his course for Southeast Missouri, travelling over 200 
miles, frequently hiding in the swamp during the day, and trav- 
elling by night. When near Charleston, Mo., he was captured by 
a band of rebel bushwhackers, who took him to the camp of the 
rebel General Jeff Thompson, where he was held as a Union spy. 



248 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

General Thompson had information to apprehend, if found, a 
Union spy by the name of David P. Sherfy, but there being no 
one present who could identify him, he gave his name as George 
W. Garber, claiming that he lived in St. Louis, and denying that 
he had ever been in Arkansas. 

General Thompson, however, was not satisfied with this state- 
ment, and remanded him to the guard-house pending further de- 
velopments. In the meantime a squad of rebel prisoners in charge 
of a Union officer, arrived at the camp. These prisoners, by pre- 
vious agreement, had been sent to General Thompson for ex- 
change, by the Union commander at Birds Point. A list of the 
Union prisoners, who were to be exchanged was 'handed to the 
rebel sergeant on duty at the guard house, who called off the 
names on the list, each man stepping out as his name was called. 

Great was Lieut. Sherfy's joy and surprise on hearing 'his 
assumed name, George W. Garber, called, but concealing his ex- 
citement, he coolly walked out and took his place in the line of 
exchanged prisoners. 

His timely rescue was brought about in this way : Will Car- 
son, a Union scout, was in the rebel camp when Lieut. Sherfy 
was brought in, and the case coming to his knowledge, he re- 
ported the matter to the Union commander at Bird's Point, sug- 
gesting that the name of George W. Garber be included in the 
list of prisoners to be exchanged. Thus it was that Lieut. Sherfy, 
known in the army as George W. Garber, retained his alias, fear- 
ing that should he again fall into the hands of the enemy, under 
the name of Sherfy, it might go hard with him. 

The brave scout, Will Carson, was subsequently killed at the 
battle of Shiiloh, Sunday evening, April 6th, while seated on his 
horse near the river and but a few yards from General Grant, 
whose, chief of scouts he was. A shot from one of the enemy's 
batteries clove his head from his shoulders. He was an ideal 
scout, and in his untimely death, the Union army lost a man whose 
place was never filled. 

After his lucky escape from the rebels, Lieut. Sherfy proceeded 
to Cairo, 111., where he enlisted in Company H, First Illinois 
Cavalry, which company being disbanded in June, 1862, he re- 
enlisted, August 1, 1862, in Company C, Eleventh Illinois In- 
fantry, in which regiment he served until March, 1864, tailing 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 249 

part in all the battles and campaigns of that famous regiment, 
from Fort Donelson to Vicksburg, including the seige of the last 
named place, and the famous charge of May 22d, winning, for 
gallant conduct, a Corporal's chevrons. He was discharged from 
the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, March, 1864, for promotion as 
2d Lieutenant, in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. He served in 
the last named regiment with great credit, until September, 1865, 
when hie was compelled to quit the service, by reason of wounds, 
and unfortunately before receiving his commission. 

During the raid in Louisiana and Arkansas, in February, 1865, 
he had his leg badly fractured by his 'horse falling on him while 
floundering in the mud, in crossing a stream. At this time the 
regiment was far out in the enemy's cotmtry, swarming with their 
cavalry. Unwilling to be left to the uncertain charity of his en- 
emies, on account of his previous experience with them, he in- 
sisted on remaining with the command, though suffering in- 
tensely. The command being provided with no means of trans- 
portation save their horses, and no vehicles of any sort being pro- 
curable in that desolate region, itihe question arose as to how the 
injured man could be carried back to camp, but the brave Lieu- 
tenant solved the problem by declaring that he would ride his 
horse ; so with his 'leg swarthed in splints and bandages and a de- 
tail of men to attend him, he rode his horse back to camp, 4 days 
being consumed in the homeward march. The indomitable pluck 
displayed by Lieutenant Sherfy during this trying ordeal elicited 
the admiration of the whole command. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

REPORT OF 1 COLONEL E. D. OSBAND. COMMANDING CAVALRY EXPE- 
DITION IN SOUTHEAST ARKANSAS AND NORTHEAST LOUIS- 
IANA, JANUARY 26 TO FEBRUARY 10, 1865. 

Headquarters, Cavalry Division, 

Department of Mississippi, 
Memphis, Tain., February 25, 1865. 
Captain: — I have the honor to forward the following report of 



250 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

the late cavalry expedition into Arkansas and Louisiana under my 
command. 

The expedition consisted of detachments of the following bri- 
gades and regiments : First Brigade, 'Colonel J. P. C. Shanks ; 
Seventh Indiana Cavalry, 155; Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 349; First 
Mississippi Cavalry, 57; total, 561. Second Brigade, Colonel 
Dox, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, 260; Eleventh New York Cavalry, 
340 ; total, 600. Third Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Otto Funk ; 
Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, 340; Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 450; 
Second Wisconsin Cavalry, 400; Fourth Illinois Cavalry, 270; 
total, 1,460; making a total force of 2,621 men. 

At 5 p. m. on the evening of the 26th of January, 1865, the 
troops were embarked on the transports John Raine, Autocrat, 
Laurel Hill, Fanny Ogden, Sallie List, Carrie Jacobs, Virginia 
Barton, Tycoon, Illinois, Ida May, Starlight, Bell of Peoria, Maria 
Denning and Landes. 

By 10 p. m. the embarkation being complete, the fleet started 
for Gaines Landing, Arkansas. Nothing of interest occurred dur- 
ing the trip. 

On the morning of the 28th, we arrived at Eunice, a point six 
miles above Gaines Landing, at 4:30 a. m. Owing to the dark- 
ness a collision occurred between the steamers Landes and Ida 
May, by which the latter was considerably damaged. The troops 
being disembarked, I immediately ordered the steamers John 
Raine, Autocrat, Laurel Hill and Maria Denning to proceed to 
Gaines Landing, there to await further orders from me; and in 
order to save any unnecessary expense, I relieved the small boats 
and ordered them to report to the quartermasters under whose 
charge they had been previously. At 8 a. m. we took up line of 
march for Bayou Macon, and arrived at the ferry at 1 p. m., the 
advance guard capturing a few pickets that had been stationed at 
the ferry for the purpose of preventing any cotton being brought 
to the Mississippi River unless properly permitted by the cotton 
bureau. 

Commenced ferrying the command across the bayou, which 
was completed at 2 a. m. on the morning of the 29th. At this 
point I left one squadron of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry to guard 
the ferry, also thinking that probably they might be able to pick 
up any small scouting parties that would approach the bayou. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 251 

January 29th, marched at 8 a. m. down the western bank of the 
bayou to Mason's lake, where we struck off in a southeasterly 
direction toward Bayou Bartholomew, the road running through 
an almost impassable swamp for a distance of twelve miles. 
Reached Bayou Bartholomew at Judge Belzer's about 2 p. m. 
Finding a considerable quantity of corn at this plantation, I di- 
rected the near brigade to procure and take with them forage for 
night and morning, and then follow the command to the next 
plantation, about four miles down the bayou. This, last four 
miles of road was even worse than the preceding twelve miles, 
and several pack-mules became so completely exhausted from fa- 
tigue and frequent miring down that they had to be abandoned. 

On January 30th, marched at 8 a. m. down the bayou to Hol- 
lo way's Ferry, distance 25 miles ; nothing of interest occurred ex- 
cept the capture of .some prisoners by the advance guard, and 
horses and 'mules by flanking parties ^sent out for that purpose. 
Also burned a large steam grist mill which was in the employ of 
the Confederate Government. 

At Hoi low ay's Ferry, I sent a detachment of the Fourth Illi- 
nois Cavalry across the bayou. At a distance of a mile and a half 
from the ferry they found a supply depot, which contained a con- 
siderable amount of ammunition. These, with the buildings were 
destroyed. 

January 31st, marched at 6 a. m. Hearing that the C. S. 
transport, Jim Barkman, was loading corn for the use of troops 
at Camden, at a point ten miles down the bayou, called Poplar 
Bluff, I immediately sent a detachment of the Fourth Illinois 
Cavalry, at a rapid gait, to intercept her, which was successfully 
performed, together with her crew and some ten or fifteen other 
prisoners, who were picked up in the vicinity. 

I placed a commissioned officer and 25 men on board the 
steamboat and ordered them to proceed down the bayou to Tur- 
ner's Woodyard, where I intended camping for the night, in- 
structing the officer to take in tow all ferry-boats he might find. 
At Poplar Bluff I ordered to be burned a distillery and grist-mill, 
together with a large lot of cotton and corn, which I was informed 
was the property of the Confederate Government. 

February 1st, marched at 6 a. m., proceeded along the bayou 
to Knox's Ferry ; here left the bayou and took the Bastrop road ; 



252 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

directed the officer in charge of the steamer to await me at Point 
Pleasant, a landing about two miles from the town of Bastrop. 

From the best information I obtained, I was led to believe that 
Colonel McNeill had a force of some 800 men at Oak Ridge, and 
judging that the heavy rains had rendered the country below Oak 
Ridge toward Boeuf River impassable, and that consequently if 
pushed he would endeavor to go toward Monroe, I determined 
on sending the Third Brigade to Oak Ridge, at the same time 
pushing the First and Second Brigades through Bastrop, La., to 
a point called Great Mills, where the Oak Ridge and Monroe 
road crossed Boeuf Bayou, hoping by this disposition of my 
forces to either capture his command or at least force a fight. T 
also directed Colonel Shanks to send a portion of the force under 
his command to Monroe. 

February 2d, remained at Bastrop all day with the Fourth Il- 
linois Cavalry and detachments of the three brigades left in 
charge of the pack train. Foraging details brought in a large 
number of horses, mules and negroes. At 3 p. m.. Colonel Funk 
arrived, and reported that on reaching Oak Ridge he found that 
McNeill's forces had been greatly exaggerated, it amounting only 
to some sixty men, poorly armed, who, hearing of his approach, 
fled and scattered about in the swamps. He succeeded in taking 
several prisoners and capturing some very good horses and mules. 

February 3d, detached two squadrons of the Fourth Illinois 
Cavalry, with orders to proceed to Prairie Mer Rouge (which I 
was informed was the finest agricultural portion of that section 
of the country) and burn all large quantities of forage, cotton, 
etc., that he might find ; also to bring in all serviceable animals 
and negroes, and to rejoin the command at Hamburg, coming up 
the west side of Bayou Bartholomew from Knox's Ferry for that 
purpose. In the interim Colonel Shanks returned and reported 
that he had gone, as directed, to Grant's Mills ; found no enemy ; 
had also sent a detachment into Monroe ; found the place nearly 
deserted, all Government property having been removed by Har- 
rison across the Washita River. 

Completing the crossing of the command by 2 a. m. of the 
4th. As soon as this was effected. I burned the steamboat ami 
sank her hull in a narrow part of the channel. 

February 4th, marched at 6 a. m., in a northeasterly direction 



Third U. S. Colored Vavalry. 253 

toward Hamburg, Ark., marched 28 miles and went into camp 
near Louisiana State line. From this point I sent a small de- 
tachment of the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, with orders to pro- 
ceed north along the bayou, gather up all the stock they could 
find', and to> join me at Gaster's Ferry. 

February 5th, marched at 6 a. m. Owing to the continuous 
heavy rain, the country was completely flooded, and the character 
of the soil was such that after a few horses had passed over the 
road, it became a perfect quicksand, while on each side of the road 
the land was so spouty that it afforded no footing whatever, the 
animals immediately miring down. Notwithstanding this, I 
marched to Hamburg with the advance 'brigade. The other two 
brigades experienced considerable difficulty, as it became neces- 
sary for them to bridge several small streams that had been 
forded by the advance brigade. 

They also lost several animals and some material, and were 
unable to reach Hamburg till the 6th. This was the most severe 
weather we experienced during the trip, being not only wet but 
also intensely cold. Several contrabands perished from cold and 
exposure in their wet condition. 

February 6th, the detachment of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry 
sent to Prairie Met Rouge, rejoined the command, and reported 
having burned about 200,000 bushels of corn, some cotton, and 
brought in several horses, mules and negroes. They also cap- 
tured a few prisoners. 

February 7th, inarched at 5 a. m., and after experiencing dif- 
ficulty, on account of all the small creeks and sloughs being very 
full, reached Collins' Mill with a part of the Third Brigade at 
7 p. m. 

February 8th, remained at Collins' all day in order to give the 
rear 'brigades an opportunity of closing up, as it had been con- 
siderably delayed in bridging streams and the wretched condition 
of the roads. 

February 9th, marched at 6 a. m., going through the town of 
Shanghai to Bayou Bartholomew ; crossed the bayou at Taylor's 
Ferry and went into camp at Hughes' plantation with a part of 
the First Brigade, the provost guard and the prisoners at 3 p. m. 

February 10th, marched at 6 a. m. Crossed Bayou at 11 a. m., 
and reached Gaines Landing at 2 p. m. 



254 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

February 11th, embarked the Fourth Illinois Cavalry (who 
had acted as provost guard during the expedition) with the pris- 
oners captured, on board the steamer Laurel Hill, and the Fifth 
Illinois Cavalry in the steamer Autocrat. 

As soon as these boats had returned to Gaines Landing with 
coal for tih»e remainder of the fleet, I amibarked the command and 
returned to Memphis. 

Taking into consideration the exceedingly adverse circum- 
stances under which the expedition was made, the losses, both in 
men and material, are singularly light. The following is a re- 
port of these losses: 

Men: 1 killed, 2 captured, and 7 left sick, unable to ride; total 
number lost, 10. Horses, 203 ; mules 49; horse equipments (sets), 
20; pack saddles, 6. Carbines, 30; pistols, 38; picket ropes, 1. 

Our captures of stock foot up as follows : Horses of superior 
quality turned over to the regiments, 182; horses of superior 
quality turned over to the division quartermaster, 94; mules 
(serviceable) turned over to regiments, and division quartermas- 
ter, 358 ; showing a net gain of stock of 75 horses and 309 mules. 
We also brought in 440 negroes, of whom 200 went into the serv- 
ice. The remainder were principally women and children. Dur- 
ing the expedition 44 prisoners were captured, and a large num- 
ber of deserters and refugees brought in. 

We also destroyed at various points large amounts of cotton, 
corn and meat ; also burned several mills, distilleries, and store- 
houses, Which were in the use of the Confederate Government. 

This expedition had for its object the destruction of Harri- 
son's command. As will be seen from the intercepted dispatches 
from him, herewith inclosed, it could not reach him without 
crossing the Washita River, at this point from one-half to three- 
quarters of a mile in width, and no boats of any kind in the vicin- 
ity to effect a crossing with. 

Deserters, furloughs to favorites, etc., have already placed 
Harrison's command hors de combat. He cannot raise in his 
whole brigade 500 properly mounted and equipped cavalry, and 
tire only regiments he had that were worth anything were taken 
from his command and sent beyond Red River. 

The corn being burnt by us, and the horses and mules most 
thoroughly hunted up and taken possession of, he cannot pos- 




J. D. LYONS. 
O. M Sergeant Third U. S. C. C. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 255 

sibly, this season or during the next year, subsist more than a 
scouting party on this side of the Washita River. A force of 
100 men located anywhere on the west bank of the Mississippi 
River, can scout the country to Washita with safety, and would 
be amply sufficient to protect the whole country. 

What may be true of the country opposite Natchez and from 
there to Trinity, I cannot speak of with any degree of certainty. 

A force could operate now from Natchez to Tensas River 
even better than in the country through which we passed. 

In and around Bastrop every resident has from ten to fifteen 
bales of cotton, which constitutes his entire property. If the Gov- 
ernment would send steamboats to Washita City, properly con- 
voyed by gun boats, 5,000 bales of cotton could be obtained from 
this class of persons, nearly all of whom desire to leave the coun- 
try with their families and become loyal citizens of the United 
States. 

It is but justice to the officers and men composing the expedi- 
tion to say that the 'hardships of the trip were the most severe 
ever encountered by cavalry in this country. Anything less than 
their 'high discipline and determination would have failed to bring 
the expedition to a successful termination. To brigade command- 
ers, and through them to every officer and soldier in the division, 
I desire to return my thanks for their indomitable energy and 
perseverance, as well as their soldierly conduct. 

I am, Captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. D. OSBAND, 

Colonel Third U. S. 

Colored Cavalry, Commanding. 
Captain F. W. Fox, 

Assistant Adjutant-General, 

Department of Mississippi. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLVIII, Part 1.) 



CHAPTER XXII. 



EXPEDITION DOWN THE RIVER FROM MEMPHIS, TENN., TO FORT 
ADAMS, MISS., APRIL, MAY AND JUNE, 1865. 

The war was practically over. General Lee had sheathed his 
sword at Appomattox. The great Army of Northern Virginia 



256 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

had stacked arms. The Union forces were in possession of the 
Confederate Capitol. The President of the Confederacy was a 
fugitive, fleeing from the wrath of his enemies. The rebels who 
were still in arras, were looking for that proverbial 'last ditch, in- 
dulging the hope that they would find it west of the Mississippi 
River, where, united with the army of the trans-Mississippi, they 
would be able to continue the war indefinitely. But Uncle Sam's 
gun-boats barred the way on the river, and the Union cavalry 
was everywhere alert. 

There were rumors that Jeff. Davis was seeking a way to cross 
the Mississippi River, and ,set up his government in Texas, there- 
fore there was a movement of troops all along the eastern bank 
of the river, as the following orders and correspondence show. 



TELEGRAM. 

Nashville, April 27, 1865. 
General Washburn, Memphis Tenn. 

It is reported that Jeff Davis is endeavoring to escape across 
the Mississippi, escorted by a picked body of 500 Cavalry. 

Keep scouts out in your front, and if he should attempt to pass 
near your command, intercept and capture him, if possible. 

General Washburn will .send this information to all command- 
ers on the Mississippi. 

Geo. H. Thomas, 
Major-General U. S. Army, Commanding. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol XLVIII, p. 281.) 



Headquarters Department of Mississippi, 

Vicksburg, Miss., May 1, 1865. 
Brig. Gen. J. W. Davidson, 

Commanding Dist. of Natchez. 

I enclose for your information a copy of a telegram from 
Major-General Thomas, just received here. It would appear 
most likely that Jeff Davis might attempt to cross in the vicinity 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 257 

of Grand Gulf, Rodney, or Bruinsburg, or in that of Jackson 
Point, or Fort Adams, or Tunica Bend. You have already a 
garrison at Rodney, and I shall not send to that vicinity, to land 
at Bruinsburg, all the mounted men I have here (about 400) and 
some dismounted cavalry. The latter will propably proceed up 
Bayou Pierre to Port Gibson, and the former will make a circuit 
to the rear of that place, with' a view also of capturing Capt. Glen- 
ney, the naval traitor, who is there. Brig. Gen. Osband has this 
moment reported here with 450 men of his regiment from Mem- 
phis for the same duty. I send him to you to be used to inter- 
cept Jeff. His .service in this Department is only temporary. It 
appears most important that the Navy should patrol actively, and 
especially rhiat Capt. McCauley should carefully guard the mouth 
of Bayou Pierre, as there are one or two cotton boats up there, 
which Jeff might seize and attempt to run out with a guard of 
his cavalry dismounted. 

I think McCauley ought to require for the present that every 
cotton-trading boat in his district should be closely under his 
guns. 

A gun-boat ought also guard the mouth of Big Black, as there 
is a small canal propeller belonging to Mr. William Butler up 
there. Osband will leave here at midnight to-night. 
Respectfully, 

N. J. T. Dana, 

Major-General. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLVIII, p. 282.) 



THE EXPEDITION STARTS DOWN THE RIVER. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, or the effective force of it, 
500 men and officers, then stationed at Memphis, Term., em- 
barked on the Steamer John Raine and two large barges, the 
barges being taken in tow. 

The steamer's capacious cabin afforded good quarters for the 
officers, vMle the men were well provided for in other parts of 
the boat. The horses were put aboard the barges. These barges 
had been in the service of the Mississippi Marine Brigade, and 
were fitted up especially for the transportation of cavalry. The 



258 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

command Left Memphis the latter part of April, 1865, Colonel 
Osband commanding. The destination of this expedition was 
Fort Adams, about 600 miles below Memphis, and about 15 miles 
north of the Louisiana State line. The run 'down the rivier was 
uneventful. Short stops were made at Vieksburg and Natchez. 
At the last named place Colonel Osband reported to General Dav- 
idson, commanding the district of Natchez, and in whose district 
the command would operate. After taking on a supply of ra- 
tions and forage at Natchez, the expedition continued on down 
the river to Fort Adams, where a camp ground was selected and 
the troops disembarked. 

Fort Adams is situated on the east bank of the Mississippi 
River, in Mississippi, and about 15 miles north of the Louisiana 
State line. 

The name of this place would seem to indicate that it was a 
fortified position, but no fortifications were visible. Perhaps 
back in the days of Spanish rule some sort of fort may have 
been established at this point. At the time of which we write, 
however it was simply a landing place for steamboats, where 
people brought their farm products, cotton, etc., for shipment to 
New Orleans. A few dilapidated buildings comprised all there 
was of the place. One of Uncle Sam's gun boats rode at anchor 
out in the river opposite the landing. 

On account of the high bank along the river front, the gun- 
boat would be of little use to us in case of a land attack, but it 
was good company and filled the command with a gneater sense 
of security. 

The object of this expedition was, as outlined in the foregoing 
letter from General Dana, to patrol the country along the river 
front, scout the interior, and be on the alert to discover any at- 
tempt by the enemy to concentrate troops in that vicinity, and to 
prevent parties from crossing the river, especially Jeff. Davis. The 
command had a sort of roving commission, being authorized to 
land troops at any threatened point and scout the country, 
v.- The camp was soon put under perfect military government, 
picket lines established and day and night patrols kept constantly 
out, covering the river front for miles above and below the camp. 
These patrols consisted of a company each, commanded by one 
or more commissioned officers. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 259 

Many people came to the landing from the adjacent country, 
some to beg permits to ship their cotton to New Orleans, others 
to sell their farm products — butter, eggs and vegetables to the 
soldiers, and many of them, through curiosity, to see the "Yan- 
kee' soldiers. 

On May 16th our steamer, the John Raine, returned to 
Natchez for rations and forage, and Colonel Osband took leave 
of us, going up on the 'boat, he having been assigned to duty as 
Post Commander at Jackson, Miss. 

On taking leave, Colonel Osband turned the command over 
to Major Main. Up to this time the companies, separately, had 
done a good deal of scouting and patrol duty, but had miet no 
enemy, and the monotony of routine duty was becoming irksome, 
when an incident occurred that instilled new life into the com- 
mand. It was on a dark, rainy night, the camp being as still and 
quiet as a graveyard ; all save the sentinels were wrapped in pro- 
found sleep, when a distant shot rang out on the still night air, 
followed almost simultaneously hy -several volleys in quick suc- 
cession, which brought every man to his feet. Then ensued the 
usual scenes incident to a night attack — officers shouting "Fall in," 
the hurried movements of the mien buckling on their anus, mingled 
with the pawing and neighing of the horses, as they, too, trained 
in the school of war, scented the danger. All, for one brief mo- 
ment, presenting a scene of seeming confusion, out of which, 
'however, like magic, came order, and where, but a few seconds 
before all seemed chaos, we now behold, indistinctly outlined in 
the gloom, a steady, compact line moving out in the darkness 
among the trees. With steady step and senses alert they swing 
into line on the crest of the hill, where a halt is made pending 
further developments. The firing, after the first volleys, dwindled 
to a few scattering shots, which seeming to come from a greater 
distance, indicated that our patrol was not being driven in. A 
courier soon arrived, bringing word from Captain Coykendall, 
commanding the patrol on the down river road, that he had en- 
countered a force of rebel cavalry, with whom be had a sharp 
skirmish, the enemy retreating. It was later ascertained from 
Captain Coykendall 'himself that his patrol had run into a force 
of the enemy in the dark, that in the skirmish that followed they 
had become considerably mixed up, that there had been a good 



260 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

deal of firing on both sides, with what result was not known, as 
the enemy all got away in the darkness. 

The: next morning, on looking over the ground where the 
skirmish took place, a pair of saddle-bags was found, which con- 
tained a Confederate Major-General's uniform coat and a pair 
of silver spurs. On the spurs was engraved the name "J. B. 
Hood." This was a startling revelation to us, and led to many 
conjectures as to what it portended. It seemed to be convincing 
proof that the great Confederate General bearing that name had 
been one of the party encountered by our patrol, and if so, what 
was the object of that midnight foray? Rumors of a somewhat 
vague nature had already reached us that a brigade of rebel in- 
fantry were somewhere in the vicinity of Woodville, where they 
were building boats and barges to be transported over land to the 
river, where they were to be used to cross their troops over to the 
west side. It was, therefore, determined to make a reconnois- 
sance in that direction, and early on the following morning, tak- 
ing two days' rations and an ample supply of ammunition, we 
moved out, taking the road to Woodville. 

Woodville is situated about 20 miles east of Fort Adams. 
The adjacent country was fertile and the people prosperous, and, 
having escaped the ravages of war to a great extent, provisions 
were comparatively plentiful, and it seemed not improbable that 
a force of the enemy might be concentrating in that neighborhood 
for the purpose of crossing the river to join their forces in Texas. 
Moving cautiously for the first few miles, and seeing or hear- 
ing nothing of the enemy, it was decided to make a rapid march 
on Woodville. The regiment was never in better condition for a 
brush with the enemy. It was on the hills of Woodville, in the 
preceding October, that the regiment made one of the most gal- 
lant and successful sabre charges of the war, capturing a battery 
of three guns. And when it became known that Woodville was 
our destination, the men sent up a round of cheers that must have 
convinced any one that the black regiment would prove equal to 
any task set before them, though they should be called upon to 
face twice their number. 

Captain Emery, with bis company, led the advance, with or- 
ders to let no mounted men precede him to carry the news of our 
approach. Several mounted men were overhauled on the road, 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 261 

who represented themselves as citizens, but, as they had the air 
of soldiers, they were turned over to the rear guard for safe- 
keeping - . When within a mile or two of Woodville the advance 
guard encountered a rebel picket of 15 or 20 men, who, disputing 
the right of way, were quickly brushed aside by a charge led by 
Captain Emery, scattering them in every direction, and capturing 
a number of them. One or two of them, 'however, being mounted 
on swift horses, dashed into the town, spreading the mews of our 
coming. Taking the gallop, we soon reached a point from which 
we could overlook the town, which was swarming with rebel cav- 
alry. There was great commotion among them, as they com- 
menced forming on the outskirts of the town to oppose us. Giv- 
ing Captain Emery another company, in addition to his own, and 
orders to make a flight detour and charge on their flank, I moved 
forward with the balance of the regiment, sabres drawn. Seeing 
the flank movement, and fearing they might be cut off from their 
line of retreat, the enemy fled precipitately, taking the Bayou Sara 
road. 

On entering the town we were met by a delegation of citizens, 
who stated that news had just reached them of the surrender of 
General J. E. Johnston's army, and claimed that our attack on 
their soldiers was unwarranted, when they were told that it was 
our business to fight the enemies of the government whenever and 
whenever found in arms against us, notwithstanding the informa- 
tion they claimed to have received. 

After a short halt in the town, we moved out, taking the Bayou 
Sara road, which we followed for several miles, and meeting no 
enemy, and gaining no information corroborative of the rumors 
we had heard of fbe concentration of troops in that vicinity, but 
on the contrary finding such rumors without foundation, we re- 
traced our steps, going back through Woodville, near which place 
we bivouaced for the night. 

Resuming the march on the following morning, we reached 
our camp at Fort Adams that evening without further incident. 



A NAVAE OFFICER'S EXPERIENCE ON HORSEBACK. 

An incident connected with the scout to Woodville furnished 
a good deal of amusement to the officers and .subjected the un- 
happy subject of it to no end of good-nature banter. 



262 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

On the night of the attack on our patrol, Captain , 

commanding the gun-boat, bearing the firing, cleared his ship 
for action and prepared to render such assistance as 'be could in 
case of a general attack. The captain was a gallant officer, and, 
as he expressed it, "was just spoiling for a fight." Learning that 
a reconnoissance was to be made, the captain expressed an earn- 
est desire to "go 'long," which was readily granted, one of our 
officers furnishing him with the necessary mount, a favorite 
charger, for the occasion. Our gallant naval officer found con- 
genial company with Captain Emery, commanding the advance, 
who entertained him with recitals of cavalry raids, sabre charges 
and hand-to-hand encounters until he deplored the fate that con- 
signed him to the narrow limits of a gun-boat on the Mississippi 
River, when, he felt sure, he might have won fame as a dashing 
cavalry leader. While thus picturing to himself the brilliancy of 
such a career and indulging in visions of martial glory, a rebel 
picket post was encountered, and he found himself face to face 
with the real thing. 

The rebel yell rang through the woods, bullets cut the air 
around him, and he found himself borne along in the whirlwind 
of the charge. 

The animal he rode was an oJd campaigner, and knew from 
long training what was expected of him, and at the first blast of 
the bugle he sprang forward, carrying his rider into the thickest 
of the fight. But the captain kept his seat like a veteran and came 
out of the fight unscathed. 

In the charge at Woodville, however, he was not so fortunate. 
Riding with Captain Emery, who led the charge into the town, 
over rough ground, our naval hero, rising in his stirrups with 
uplifted sword, yelled defiance to the foe, when, evidently forget- 
ting that he was not treading the deck of his gun-boat, he lost his 
equilibrium and fell sprawling in the road, face down, receiving 
some painful bruises and the temporary disfigurement of his hand- 
some face. He was picked up and tenderly cared for. 

He blamed the horse for his mishap, refusing to mount him 
again, so an old carry-all was procured for his conveyance back 
to camp. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 263 

On the 20t'h the following order was received : 

Headquarters, District of Natchez, 

Natchez, Miss., May 20, 1865. 

Commanding Officer Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, 

Fort Adams, Miss. 

Sir: — The Brigadier-General commanding directs that you 
will, as soon as practicable, embark your command, with camp 
and garrison 'equipage, stores, etc., for this point, reporting your 
arrival at these headquarters. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
B. F. Morey, 
Capt. and Asst. Adjutant-General. 

In compliance with the foregoing order, the regiment was em- 
barked on the 21st and proceeded up the river to Natchez, arriv- 
ing there on the evening of the same day. On reporting to Gen- 
eral Davidson, that officer ordered that the regiment disembark 
and go into camp, stating that he had made application to have 
the regiment assigned to duty in his district. 

With the aid of a staff officer, by direction of the general, a 
good camp ground was selected in the outskirts of the city, where 
the regiment was put into camp. The order to disembark and go 
into camp at Natchez was a great surprise and disappointment 
to all of us. Our camp and garrison equipage and extra cloth- 
ing had been left in Memphis, where the headquarters of the reg- 
iment was still located, as it was understood that our service in 
the district of Natchez would be only temporary. The officers 
and men had been without a proper change of clothes since leav- 
ing Memphis, and they were 'looking decidedly seedy. But there 
was no alternative, unquestioned obedience is the soldier's duty, 
growling his prerogative. 

Reporting to General Davidson on the following day, he in- 
quired regarding the proficiency of the regiment in drill, stating 
that he would ride out to our camp the next day, when he would 
like to see the regiment execute a few movements. General 
Davidson was a West Pointer and a cavalry officer of distinction, 



264 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

was an authority on tactics, and cavalry was his hobby. His in- 
spection of the regiment was therefore looked upon as an ordeal 
to be dreaded. When the general rode into camp the next day, 
accompanied by his staff, the regiment being mounted and in 
line, received him with the usual cavalry salute — sabres presented. 
After inspection, the general named a few exercises which he de- 
sired to see executed. At the conclusion of these exercises, the 
General complimented the regiment very highly on its appearance 
and proficiency in drill. 

On May 23d the following order was received : 



Headquarters, Post of Natchez, 

Natchez, Miss., May 23, 1865. 

To the Commanding Officer, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Sir: — You will have 300 of your command ready to move this 
day at 12 o'clock m., with four days' rations. The command will 
be divided into three detachments of 100 men each, commanded 
by a competent officer. 

The commanding officers of these detachments will report to 
headquarters. District of Natchez, for instructions. 

M. Y. Emons, 

Lieutenant-Colonel, 
Commanding Post of Natchez. 



later order. 

Headquarters Post of Natchez, 

Natchez, Miss, May 23, 1865. 

To Major Main, Commanding Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Sir: — In addition to the order sent you this morning, the 
General commanding directs that you command one of the de- 
tachments, and that each of the other detachments be commanded 
by a reliable officer. You and the two officers commanding de- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 265 

tachments will report in person to Brigadier-General J. W. Dav- 
idson at 12 o'clock m., this day, leaving yonr commands in camp 
ready to move. 

M. Y. Emons, 

Lieutenant-Colonel . 
Commanding Post of Notches. 

Captains Emery and Haynes were detailed to command, re- 
spectively, two of the detachments called for in the foregoing or- 
der, and at the hour designated we reported to General Davidson, 
receiving verbal instructions as follows: To take charge of a 
train of sixty wagons, four and six mules to a wagon, then in 
readiness to move, proceed with them to a designated point about 
forty miles from Natchez, where it was reported a large amount 
of cotton was stored, the cotton the property of the Confederate 
States Government, which, when found, was to be loaded on the 
wagons and sent back to Natchez, under a suitable guard. Major 
Main to retain command of the three detachments until the cotton 
was secured, when the detachments were to separate, the com- 
manding officer of each to carry out his respective instructions, 
which were to proceed to designated county seats and secure the 
public records of .same and take them to Natchez, a number of 
wagons being allotted to each detachment for this purpose. Mov- 
ing out about fifteen miles that afternoon, the command camped 
for the night. 

General Davidson introduced two men to Major Main, who 
were to accompany the command as guides. These men were 
citizens, whom the general had employed on account of their 
knowledge, or rather pretended knowledge, of the country. Dur- 
ing tfbe first day's march these men were questioned regarding 
the country, the roads, and the location of thle cotton, but the in- 
formation, or rather the lack of information, to be gained from 
them excited doubts as to their trustworthiness, and a watch was 
set on them, which developed the fact that they were simply act- 
ing a part, in fact, that they possessed no knowledge of the coun- 
try or of the existence of any cotton belonging to the Confederate 
Government. These men had learned by some means that a 
wealthy family living in that vicinity had in their possession a 
large sum of money— gold— which they had planned to possess 



266 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

themselves of, in furtherance of which they fabricated the story 
about the cotton, that they might be employed to accompany the 
command as guides. 

The true character and purpose of these men was discovered 
while in camp the first night out, when they were forthwith ar- 
rested and kept under close guard until the command returned to 
Natchez, where they were turned over to General Davidson, with 
a statement of the facts. 

Marched at daylight on the morning of the 24th. The day 
was extremely hot, and the long train of sixty wagons made 
progress slow, but we reached the neighborhood where the cotton 
was reported to be, and camped for the night. On the 25th 
scouting parties were sent out to search for the cotton, but none 
could be found. It was conclusive evidence that there was no 
truth in the story the men had told about the cotton. 

On the afternoon of the 25th the command separated, each 
detachment going in different directions to carry out their re- 
spective orders. The work assigned to these detachments was 
successfully accomplished, all returning to Natchez on the 27th. 

On the return to Natchez all were delighted at the receipt 
of the following order : 



Headquarters, Department oe Mississippi, 

Vicksburg, Miss, May 22, 1865. 
Special Orders, No. 165. 
Extract. 
11. The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry are hereby relieved 
from duty in the District of Natchez, and will be put en route 
for Vicksburg. On its arrival, the commanding officer will re- 
port for further instructions at these headquarters. 

The Quartermaster's Department will furnish transportation. 
By order of Major-General Warren, ■ 
Frederick Speed, 

Asst. Adjutant-General. 
Oeficial. 

W. H. H. Emmons, 

Asst. Adjutant-General. 

Commanding Officer Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 
Through Headquarters, District of Natchez. 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 267 

(report op brevet brigadier-general e. d. osband.) 

Headquarters Cavalry Expedition-. 
Fort Adams, Miss., May 6, 1865. 

General: — I have the honor to report that in pursuance to 
orders, I arrived at this point on the morning of the 3d instant ; 
disembarked the command, and in the afternoon of that day sent 
a scouting party down to Tunica Bend. Found nothing in that 
direction. 

On the 4th instant I sent a party through Woodville to Jones' 
plantation, where I was informed some torpedoes were concealed. 
The officer in command, on his return, reported that the torpedoes 
■had been removed, and that he had learned they were being broken 
up and the powder was being sold to the citizens. 

Yesterday evening I embarked three squadrons, and landed 
them at Bayou Sara about 10 p. m., with orders to scout from 
Bayou Sara to Woodviile and thence to this point. 

From the gun-boat officers at Bayou Sara, I learn that Scott's 
brigade of Confederate cavalry, acting as escort to Jeff. Davis, 
are expected to cross the river between here and Bayou Sara in 
a few days ; also that a force of 3,000 of our troops will be trans- 
ferred from Morganza to Bayou Sara either to-day or to-morrow. 

The Steamer Magnet brought information to the gun-boat 
Chillicothe (lying off the point) that Davis, with a small cavalry 
escort, had crossed the river at Quitman, a short distance above 
Natchez, on Sunday night last, but I do not credit this report. 

Official communication has been received at Woodville of the 
surrender of General Dick Taylor's army to General Canby, and 
I think that the majority of the scattered forces in this vicinity 
will come in and surrender at this point. 

I shall continue to operate between Fort Adams and Bayou 
Sara till I receive further orders from you. 

I have the honor to remain, General, 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
E. D. OsBAxn. 
Colonel Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Commanding Expedition. 
Brigadier-General J. W. Davidson, 

Commanding District of Natchez. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLVIII, Part 1, p. 254.) 



268 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

second report. 
Headquarters Cavalry Expedition, 

Fort Adams, Miss., May 14, 1865. 
Captain B. F. Morey, 

Asst. Adjutant-General, District of Natchez. 

Captain: — I have the honor to report that I connected at 
Pickneyville last night with Colonel Fonda's pickets from Bayou 
Sara. Pickneyville is twelve miles from here, and as his brigade 
is engaged on this picket duty solely, I would, in the most re- 
spectful manner, suggest that they extend their pickets to the 
line of Buffalo Creek, relieving me from duty here. I make these 
.suggestions for the reason: Ellis Cliffs, below Natchez, and a 
point in Dead Man's Bend, just below Glasscock's Island, are 
both good crossings, and, with the exception of the gun-boat pa- 
trol, must be entirely unguarded. 

On the night of the 12th we destroyed a large yawl in Tunica 
Bend that seemed to have been much and recently used. 

Yesterday, the 13th, we found and destroyed a large dug- 
out and yawl used just below here in crossing, but have not seen 
for two days any but paroled soldiers of Lee's army. All of Gen- 
eral Taylor's men are leaving the country, and ten men can go 
from here to Liberty unmolested. 

Great interest is manifested to learn what arrangement ought 
to be made with the freedmen. I have instructed the planters to 
go on with their work, and the Government would indicate its 
pleasure at the proper time. If any instructions can be given me 
they will unanimously comply the moment they are informed of 
the conditions required. 

I will require fifteen days' rations for crew of John Raine, ten 
days' rations for detachment of cavalry, ten days' forage for 
horses, 1,500 bushels of coal for John Raine. I am. Captain, 
Very respectfully your obedient servant, 

E. D. Osbaxp. 
Brevet Brigadier-General, Commanding. 
(Rebellion Records, Vol. XLVIII, Part 1, p. 434.)) 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 269 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

REMINISCENCES OF THE WAR BY FIRST LIEUT. FRANK W. CALAIS. 

During the summer of 1863, the question of using the ne- 
groes as soldiers and allowing them to engage in the struggle 
then going on, the success or failure of which was to determine 
tfheir future status — freedom or slavery — was being discussed in 
all parts of the country, and in no place with greater zeal than 
around the campfires of our volunteers. 

The men who enlisted in 1861 for the war, began to think that 
their term of service was to be indefinitely prolonged. 

Their experience at Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Vicksburg and 
other places, seemed to strengthen the argument in favor of giv- 
ing the negroes a chance to exercise the right of citizenship prom- 
ised them by the President's proclamation of emancipation. There 
were, however, many men, both in and out of the army, who had 
no faith in the negro as a soldier, besides there was a bitter and 
wide-spread prejudice against it. Seeing the danger in such a 
move, the Confederate authorities did everything in their power 
to discourage the use of negro soldiers. They outlawed the white 
officers of negro troops, declaring that they would not recognize 
negro troops and their white officers as prisoners of war. These 
influences deterred many from accepting positions in colored reg- 
iments. Fortunately, however, there were many young men in 
the Union army, who, having no rock-rooted prejudices to over- 
come, were willing to hazard the experiment and take their 
chances with colored troops. 

In September, 1863, the War Department authorized the en- 
listment of a regiment of colored cavalry to be organized at 
Vicksburg. This regiment was first designated as the First Mis- 
sissippi Cavalry of African Descent, but was subsequently changed 
to "Third U. S. Colored Cavalry." Major E. D. Osband, Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry, was commissioned Colonel of the regiment. 

Colonel Osband was privileged to select all of his officers for 
the regiment, choosing nearly all of them from the Fourth Illi- 
nois Cavalry. These officers were commissioned and ordered on 
recruiting service, and they entered upon the work with a zeal 
that brought forth the best results. Company "A" was the first 
company mustered into the service, October 9, 1863. The officers 
of this company were : Captain, W. W. Webber ; Second Lieuten- 



270 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

ant Fourth Illinois Cavalry; First Lieutenant, Frank W. Calais, 
Sergeant Fourth Illinois Cavalry ; Second Lieutenant, James S. 
Matthews, Corporal Fourth Illinois Cavalry. 

The officers of Company A, also all the other company officers, 
were young, active men, enthusiastic, and soon had their com- 
panies so thoroughly drilled that many older regiments were put 
to the blush by comparison. 

To start with, the regiment was inferiorly armed and poorly 
mounted. By raiding the government corrals, a sufficient number 
of old hacks, horses and mules were procured to mount the men 
on as fast as the companies were organized. But these mounts 
were deemed fit only for drill practice, and with no thought of 
taking the field with them. However, detachments of the regi- 
ment were frequently sent out with the white cavalry, and did 
very effective service. With such inferior arms and mounts, the 
regiment soon began to attract notice. In the early part of No- 
vember, 1863, the companies then organized, A, B and C, with the 
battalion Fourth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Osband commanding, 
were ordered to Skipwith Landing, about one hundred miles 
above Vicksburg. Leaving Vicksburg, the command marched to 
Haynes' Bluff, where we crossed the Yazoo River on a steam- 
boat sent up for the purpose, from which point we marched 
through the country to Skipwith's Landing, where a permanent 
camp was estabHshied. From this camp we made frequent raids 
through that section of the country, driving out and dispersing 
bands of rebel cavalry, with whom we had many sharp encounters. 

In the early part of December an expedition was organized 
to make a raid across the river, in Louisiana and Arkansas. The 
force for this raid consisted of detachments from Companies A, 
B and C of our regiment, about 200 men, commanded by Major 
Cook, a detachment of the Fourth 111. Cav., 75 men, commanded 
by Lieutenant Main, all under command of Major Chapin. The 
command crossed the river on a steamboat, disembarking on the 
Louisiana side. Scouting through the country, going north up 
Boeuf River, we camped the second night on the plantation of a 
Mr. Merriweather, near the Arkansas State line, and about a 
mile east of Boeuf River, a dense swamp intervening between our 
camp and the river. The usual precautions in regard to pickets 
and camp guards were observed. A force of rebel cavalry being 
in the neighborhood on the other side of the river, learning of 



Third U S. Colored Cavalry. 271 

our camping place, a force of 500 of them crossed the river dur- 
ing the night by means of a small ferry (scow), leaving their 
horses behind, and making their way through the swamp on foot, 
attacked us shortly before daylight. 

We called camp early, some time before daylight, fed our 
(horses, made coffee, and the men were standing around the camp 
fires, eating and talking utterly unprepared for a sudden attack. 

Captain Emery, some other officers and myself were in one of 
the plantation cabins, when a crash of fire arms caused us to 
spring to our feet, the general movement causing the floor to give 
way. We rushed out as another volley and the rebel yell rang 
out along the fence in front of the main dwelling. The fires were 
quickly kicked out, and the officers rallied their men along the 
fence, on the other side of wibich the enemy were massed, pouring 
in a deadly fire. Captain Emery formed his men along the north 
line of the fence, where the fire was the hottest. I formed my 
company south of Emery's company, while Company G, Lieut. 
Taylor commanding, occupied a position 'between my company 
and Emery's. In this position we gave them as good as they 
sent, and I guess a little more, as they soon fell back across the 
road, taking shelter in the edge of the woods, where they kept up 
the fight from behind trees, in the deep shadow of which we could 
only locate them by the flash of their guns. In this position the 
fight was maintained for about half an hour, when I made a dash 
across the road with my company, where, in the woods, on equal 
footing with them, I got in some very effective work on their 
flank, causing them to fall back. At this point the other com- 
panies charged across the road, firing and yelling, which put the 
enemy to flight. 

The Fourth Illinois Cavalry detachment was camped at the 
gin-house, some distance from where the colored soldiers camped, 
and being less prepared even than the colored soldiers, they re- 
cived the first shock of the attack and suffered severely, 13 of 
them being taken prisoners and several wounded. 

While pursuing the enemy, and at a point near the gin-house, 
my attention was attracted by someone calling out, "Don't shoot :" 
advancing, I found my old comrade, Oscar Randall, of the Fourth 
Illinois Cavalry detachment, lying at the foot of a tree, shot 
through the neck. He had fallen in the fight at the gin-house. 
I had him carried back to camp. 



272 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

There were many instances of individual bravery displayed 
in this fight. Sergeant Turner, of my company, was out on picket 
with a squad of men, and, hearing the firing, brought his men 
in, flanking the enemy's line of fire. He lined up 'his men on the 
Left of my line and fought bravely. 

When my company charged across the road, Tony Price, an- 
other colored sergeant, led the left of my line, holding his men 
as steady as veterans. 



SCOUTING THROUGH THE CANE BRAKES OE MISSISSIPPI. 
BETRAYED BY HIS OWN DOG. 

Rumors having reached camp that a band of rebel cavalry were 
scouting about in the swamps northeast of Skipwith's Landing, 
for the purpose of suprising and capturing steamboats, a detach- 
ment of out regiment wais sent out to kill, capture or disperse 
them. Reaching the neighborhood of their 'haunts, we marched 
and countermarched only to find that the enemy had gone, or that 
they had not been there at all. The advance guard would fre- 
quently exchange sabots with small bands of the enemy, but no 
force demanding the attention of more than one company was 
encountered. Rebel scouts and spies hung on our front, flanks 
and rear, worried our pickets at night, and kept us on the tip-toe 
of expectancy all the time. No trustworthy information regard- 
ing the whereabouts and movements of the enemy could be gained 
from the people; all were in league against us and always mis- 
leading us. We were getting so disgusted with following this 
Jack-o-lantern that had we come upon a force of the enemy they 
would have been roughly handled. It was while in this mood 
that, coming in sight of a plantation house, a man was seen to 
leave the house and start to run across the field toward the swamp. 
The advance guard gave chase, but wtoen they reached the field 
the man could not be seen ; he had mysteriously disappeared, gone 
as suddenly as if the ground had opened and swallowed him. The 
field was cut with open ditches, and was overgrown with tall 
grass and weeds. The men scattered in search of the fugitive, 
but in the meantime some of our men had gone to the house, 
where, finding a bloodhound tied there, they turned him loose. 
The dog:, on beins; freed from his leash, scented the track of his 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 273 

master, and, bounding away, baying at every jump, disappeared 
in the tall grass, following his master's trail. The man now see- 
ing that the dog would be tray him, left his hiding place and started 
to run for the canebrake on the other side of the field, where he 
hoped to evade pursuit, but, failing to halt after repeated calls, 
he was shot. 



ORDERED BACK TO VICKSBURG. 

In January, 1864, the command was ordered back to Vicks- 
burg, going into camp at Haynes Bluff, 12 miles above, on the 
Yazoo River, where we were engaged in scouting the adjacent 
country, frequently meeting the enemy, witib whom we had some 
sharp fighting. 

On the first of February, our regiment, or the organized part 
of it, about 300, joined the Yazoo expedition, Colonel James H. 
Coates commanding. This expedition embarked on transports, 
and, convoyed by several gun-boats, went up the Yazoo River to 
Greenwood, a distance of 200 miles. Much hard fighting and 
skirmishing was done during this expedition, which was full of 
interest from start to finish. 

At Sartartia, Liverpool Heights, Yazoo City and many other 
places the troops were landed and engaged the enemy. 

Reaching Greenwood on the 14th, the troops were disem- 
barked and camped near the town, where the command remained 
until the 19th. From this point our regiment did some scouting, 
and had several lively skirmishes with the enemy. 

On the 16th, the regiment was sent to Grenada, thirty miles 
distant, but did not get into the town, as the rebel General Forrest 
occupied the place with 6,000 cavalry. We drove in his pickets, 
with whom we had a lively skirmish, and then turned back. 
While at Greenwood our regiment camped on the plantation of 
a Mr. Strong, the male members of the family, however, being 
absent in the Confederate Army, but Mrs. Strong and her two 
charming daughters dispensed the hospitalities of the house with 
genuine Southern grace. This was a typical Southern family. 
They seemed to be much attached to their slaves, especially to 
the "old mammy" who had nursed all the Strong children for 
two generations, and they felt confident that their colored people 



274 Tliivd U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

would not leave them. But when the time came for us to depart, 
the lower deck of the steamer carried every one of them, conspic- 
uous among them being "old mammy," perched on a pile of cot- 
ton bales, the happiest one of the lot. 

Subsequently, Mrs. Strong visited Vieksburg to present her 
claim for cotton taken from her plantation, where she found many 
of her truant darkies, a number of whom returned home with' her, 
among them "old mammy," now truly repentant, and more eager 
to return than she had been to leave home. 

On the 19th the command embarked and proceeded down the 
river, arriving at Yazoo City on the 28th, where the troops were 
disembarked, the infantry going into camp on the river front, 
while the cavalry, our regiment, was sent out to reconnoitre and 
picket the roads leading into the city. 

Major Cook, with a detachment of 40 men of our regiment, 
was sent out on the Benton road, where he encountered the ad- 
vance guard of General Ross' Texas brigade, whom he charged, 
rushing them back onto the main column, w>hieh was thrown into 
confusion. Major Cook, finding that he had stirred up a hornet's 
nest, made a gallant retreat, falling back, fighting, until he 
reached a small redoubt near the city, where he made a stand, 
and being reinforced by troops from the city, the enemy were 
held at bay. In this engagement quite a number of Major Cook's 
men were killed and wounded, among the wounded being Captain 
Frank Cook. 

It becoming evident that the enemy were concentrating a large 
force, and that they were closing in around us, Colonel Coates 
stationed his troops at the strongest points of vantage. Our regi- 
ment, or the major part of it, under Major Cook, and a detach- 
ment of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, under Major McKee, were 
stationed in and about the fort on the Benton road, while the 
infantry occupied positions in and about the city. 

These positions were maintained with more or less skirmish- 
ing on the picket line until the morning of March 5th, when our 
pickets on all the roads were simultaneously attacked and driven 
in, and in a short time the fight became general all along our lines. 

I was on picket with my company that morning the attack was 
made, and fell back to the fort on the Benton Road, where I took 
position in some rifle pits on the south side of the fort. Captain 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 275 

Emery, with his company, occupied the rifle pits on the north side. 

The enemy gradually closed in around us until we were com- 
pletely surrounded. We could count the flags of eight rebel regi- 
ments as they came into position on the adjacent hills. They 
planted their batteries in commanding positions, and from cannon 
and small arms they opened a terrific fire upon us. Three times 
the rebel general demanded the surrender of the fort, con] tied 
with the threat tihiat, in case of refusal, no quarter would be given. 

Th officers of our regiment notified Major McKee that, in the 
event of the surrender, they would not be a party to it, that know- 
ing what fate awaited them in the event of surrender, they pre- 
ferred to die fighting with arms in their hands. But thie brave 
Major had no idea of surrendering. He was not built that way. 
In the meantime there' was a hot time in the old town, where our 
troops were fighting against heavy odds. 

Towards the close of the day our forces in the city executed a 
flank movement that threw the enemy into confusion and final 
rout, giving us the victory. 



A PLUNDERED PLANTATION. 

Returning from a leave of absence in April, 1864, I rejoined 
my company then stationed at Goodrich's Landing, La. During 
my absence, the First Battalion of our regiment, Major Chapin 
commanding, had been ordered to Goodrich's Landing for duty 
at that post, which was garrisoned by the Fifty-first and Sixty- 
sixth Regiments U. S. Colored Infantry, and the Second U. S. 
Light Artillery, colored. Colonel A. Watson Webber commanded 
the post. Our battalion remained at this post until September 
following, engaged in picket and scouting duty, and 'had many 
sharp encounters with the enemy's cavalry. 

On my return from Leave of absence I was accompanied by 
a friend, Herman Webster, of Joliet, Illinois, who came South 
to visit friends. He was a young man of education, and stood 
high in the estimation of the people of his home town. After 
spending a few days with me in camp, he accepted an invitation 
to visit some friends who were living on a plantation a few miles 
from our camp. It being considered quite safe within so short 
a distance of our camp, Wehster rode out to the plantation un- 
attended. 



276 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

The morning following Webster's departure from camp, Col- 
onel Webber received the startling information that the plantation 
Webster had started to visit had been raided the night before by 
a band of guerrillas, who had swooped down on the place, plun- 
dered it, set fire to the buildings, killed a number of people and 
carried away two white men. On receipt of this information, I 
was at once dispatched with forty men of 'my company, with or- 
ders to proceed to the scene with all possible haste, and, if possi- 
ble, run down and capture or kill the marauders. Taking the 
gallop, I soon reached the plantation, where I found a scene that 
beggars description. The dead bodies of a number of negroes 
lay where they had been shot down, evidently when they were 
fleeing from the place. The storehouses containing the planta- 
tion supplies had been burned after being plundered. A large 
number of refugees and colored people were quartered on this 
plantation, many of whom, when the marauders appeared, fled 
in every direction, seeking safety in the fields, where they re- 
mained until daylight before venturing to return. Satisfying my- 
self that my friend Webster was not there, he evidently having 
been taken away by the marauders, I resolved to follow them and 
rescue him, if possible. From the best information I could gather, 
I judged they numbered about 75 or 100 men, and all well mount- 
ed, and at least double my force. Riding at a sharp gallop, I 
reached Bayou Tensas, where I learned that they had crossed 
the bridge some time ahead of me, having two prisoners with 
them. At this point I found myself with only 18 men, the others 
having fallen behind, their horses being unable to keep up the 
pace at which I had ridden. Leaving one man at the bridge with 
orders to stop the others there as they came up, I crossed over 
to the otlher side with my remaining 17 men. I followed the trail 
of the marauders into the cane brake, where I found the dead 
body of one of the men they had captured. He was shot through 
the head, the body being still warm. With a horrible fear of 
also finding the dead body of my friend, we searched the cane 
brake for some time, but in vain, and deeming it too risky to 
linger longer in that vicinity, we retraced our steps. On re- 
crossing the bridge, I found my men all there, those who had 
fallen behind having come up. After giving 'the 'horses a short 
rest, we proceeded on our way back to camp, and as we rode along 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 277 

I was filled with sad and gloomy thoughts respecting the fate of 
my friend. 



IN THE CHARACTER OF A SCOUT. 

Major Ch'apin was ordered to make a raid with the entire ef- 
fective force of the battalion, the object of which was to break 
up and drive out the bands of marauders who were interrupting 
navigation on the Mississippi River, capturing, plundering and 
burning steamboats. 

I preceded the command some twelve or fifteen hours, leaving 
camp the evening before, to reconnoitre and gather information 
rspecting the movements of the enemy. I was dressed in citizens 
clothes, and rode a sorry looking horse, but he was better than 
he looked to be. I was also rigged out with an old dilapidated 
saddle and bridle, the latter having rope lines. 

I rode the greater part of that night, when, it becoming dif- 
ficult to follow the road through the woods, I sought a secluded 
place and lay down for a little rest, but the mosquitoes were so 
annoying that I could not sleep. 

At the first indication of daylight, I mounted my horse and 
proceeded on my way. My night's ride had developed a keen ap- 
petite, and the question of procuring breakfast claimed my atten- 
tion, and I resolved to stop at the first house I came to. Emerg- 
ing from the woods about sunrise, I found myself in an open 
country and near a cluster of plantation buildings. Riding up to 
the main dwelling, I gave the customary hail, "Halloo, the house," 
wMch was answered by an old darkey, who made his appearance 
from one of the cabins. In answer to my inquiries, the old 
darkey delivered himself as follows: "Fo' de Lawd, massa, de 
white folks all done gwine way, so dey is, dey all skeered ter 
def uv de gonrillers. No pusens neah, sah, 'oeptin' me and de 
ole "oi;ian. Lite, massa, lite (this in native parlance was an invi- 
tation to dismount) ; de ole 'oman'll get yer sumptin ter eat pow- 
erful quick; dar ent much anyway; de white folks done tote 
ebrything off. Yes, sah, plenty corn an' fodder fer de hoss. Step 
rite in, sab, old Sam gwine ter tend de hoss." 

I entered tihte cabin, when the old woman soon set some corn 
pone and bacon before me, to which I did ample justice. I gained 



278 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

some useful information from these old colored people. Taking" 
me for a Southerner, they professed great fealty to the Southern 
cause, telling all they knew respecting the bands of partisan ma- 
rauders we were after. 

Myself and horse being refreshed, I mounted and rode away. 
About noon that day, I fell in with a man going the same way I 
was. He was well mounted, carried a double-barrel shotgun and 
two large revolvers, and was dressed in a suit of 'bonne-made 
jeans, and withal was a pretty tough looking specimen of the 
bushwacking type. My shabby appearance did not seen to impress 
him favorably, and he paid little attention to me at first. Finally, 
however, he conversed quite freely on the state of the weather, 
the condition of the roads and the "craps." He seemed to take 
it for granted that I was a native, living thereabouts. In the 
course of our conversation, I remarked that the Yankees were in 
the habit of scouting out that way, and that we had better keep a 
sharp lookout. He said he knew where he was, that be had often 
scouted through there, and that no d — Yank could slip up on him- 
From this he switched off on the subject of the war, detailing some 
of his exploits and the daring raids his company had made, finally 
hinting at the raid in which my friend Webster bad been car- 
ried off. He seemed to gloat over their fiendish work on that 
occasion, saying that they "knocked the chunk out of two Yanks 
on that raid, that they lost them in the cane brake." The fellow 
seemed inclined to do all the talking, so I remained an attentive 
listener, gaining some important information. 

Finally, the fellow asked where I lived and where I was go- 
ing. I hesitated in framing my reply. I might venture on dan- 
gerous ground, which would lead to unpleasant developments, 
when, looking up with a reply on my lips, I caught the fellow's 
scowling gaze fixed upon me, and the words were never spoken, 

for at that instant he said, with murder in his eye, "Who in h 

are you, anyway?" 

Instantly I realized that the issue was made, that nothing I 
could now say would appease the bloody intention of this man, 
that the time for action had come. His gun rested across the sad- 
dle in front of him, the muzzle pointing from me. Quick as a 
flash, and before his last words died on his lips, I seized the gun 
with one hand while with the other hand I drew the revolver from. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 279 

my bootleg and put a bullet through him before hie could wrest 
the gun from me. With the report of my pistol he threw up his 
hands and fell from the saddle. With another shot I killed his 
horse as he started to run away, then dismounting, I broke his 
gun against a tree, and taking his revolvers, rode away, not 
stopping to see whether the man was dead or not. At any rate, 
I had killed his horse and disarmed him, putting it out of his 
power to follow me. 

I joined the command late that night at Ashland Landing, and 
reported to Major Chapin. From this point I accompanied the 
command, riding with the advance and taking part in all the 
skirmishes that followed. 

On the homeward march, I left the command at Jose Bayou, 
where it camped for the night. On the following morning, get- 
ting permission from Major Chapin, I started out to learn the 
truth or falsity of the statement made by my late traveling com- 
panion respecting the fate of my friend Webster. 

Taking a short cut across the country, I reached the bridge 
over Bayou Tensas that afternoon, where I had previously gone 
in search of my friend. Carefully reconnoitering, I crossed the 
bridge and commenced my search through the cane brake. After 
following various trails and finding nothing, I was about to give 
up the search, when my attention was attracted to a flock of buz- 
zards fluttering around in the top of a dead tree, which stood 
some distance away and where I had not been. Riding hither, I 
found unmistakable evidence of the fate of young Webster. 
Bones stripped of all flesh, the work of the buzzards, a few frag- 
ments of clothing, and some leaves from his diary, was all that 
was left of Herman Webster, my old schoolmate and friend. A 
bullet hole in his skull told only too well how he met death'. 

Had I felt any conscientious scruples for putting a bullet 
through my late traveling companion, standing here in this pres- 
ence, viewing the bleaching bones of my life-long friend, all such 
sentiment would have vanished at onoe. The painful duty of 
acquainting the old father and mother of the cruel fate of their 
son seemed the hardest part of all. They had already given one 
son to their country — sacrificed on the altar of the Union ; and 
now Herman, their only hope and stay, was taken from them. 
I could only find relief in the thought that I would not be there 



^80 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

to witness their grief when the sad news reached them, though 
my heart went out to them in deepest sympathy. Had he fallen 
as a soldier, fighting in honorable warfare, they would bear the 
loss with Spartan fortitude and submission, but the black shadow 
of his cruel and untimely death, appealing for mercy, would be 
ever present to darken and sadden their declining days. 

Returning to camp, I obtained permission to take my company 
and return to the place and bury the remains of my friend, which 
I did on the following day. 



CAPTURE OF A REBEE QUARTERMASTER. 
HE HAD MONEY TO BURN. 

Information having reached headquarters that agents of the 
Confederate Government were in the country east of the Missis- 
sippi River, known as the Yazoo Delta, buying up and collecting 
large quantities of supplies for the rebel army, Major Chapin was 
ordered to embark the battalion on a iSteamboat, which was sent 
up to Goodrich's Landing from Vicksburg for that purpose, 
cross the river and scout the country and destroy all supplies be- 
longing to the Confederate States Government. Proceeding as 
directed, the battalion disembarked at a point near Skipwith's 
Landing, on the east bank of the river, and marched into the in- 
terior. The region through which we scouted was one of the 
richest in the South. In this section, abounding in wealth, -rich 
in the sinews of war, the rebel authorities were gathering sup- 
plies for their destitute soldiers in the field. We found and de- 
stroyed large quantities of such supplies. 

We met no force of the enemy sufficient to retard our march, 
only meeting small bands of rebel cavalry, which were quickly 
brushed aside, but they hung on our flanks and annoyed our 
pickets at night, and frequently fired from ambush. At one place 
we captured one of these purchasing agents, a Confederate Quar- 
termaster, who had in Ms possession a large amount of Confed- 
erate money. The supplies were destroyed and the money con- 
fiscated. This quartermaster bewailed the loss of the supplies, 
but seemed to care little for the loss of the money, saying, "We 
have money to burn, but we need the supplies badly." 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 281 

The object of the raid having been accomplished, the com- 
mand returned to the river, where it embarked and was soon back 
in camp at Goodrich's Landing. 



A DRUMHEAD COURT MARTIAL. SWIFT JUSTICE AND A SHORT SHRIFT. 

Following in the wake of every army, as sharks follow a 
doomed ship, are always found a horde of human vultures, who, 
hyena-like, prowl over battlefields, despoiling the dead, preying 
on the defenseless and profiting by the misfortunes of others. 
These species of the genus coyote, known in the army as the 
"cotton buyer," was conspicuously in evidence during our great 
civil war. Whenever and wherever any portion of the army 
moved, he was sure to be present. When the army advanced he 
followed. When the army fell back he took the lead. Like his 
prototype, the coyote, he took precious good care to keep out of 
danger. His ambition was cotton, to get which, either by fair 
means or foul, was the dream of his life. His sauve and fawning 
manner, his boasted patriotism and pretended love for the Union, 
won favor at headquarters, giving him the freedom of the cam]), 
and, in fact, about all other privileges he felt inclined to take. 
The man of doubtful or unproclaimed loyalty was not permitted 
to ship his cotton, the value of which at current prices, if real- 
ized on, would make him comfortable, and so in sight of all this 
wealth he and his family starved for the ordinary necessities of 
life, while our bunko man, the loyal cotton buyer, could ship his 
cotton and no questions asked. When and how he got the cotton, 
the price paid, etc., were known only to himself and perhaps one 
or two others. These shady transactions were never made pub- 
lic. They will go down to posterity as unwritten history of the 
war. 

The glitter of his gold corrupted officers and men, tempting 
them from the path of duty and rectitude, and bringing many to 
shame and degradation, while he wflilo worked their ruin, the 
beneficiary of their wrong-doing, walked with head erect, un- 
touched by the blight of scorn. 

On a certain occasion a lieutenant in the army, whose name, 
for obvious reasons, is withheld, was approached by one of these 
pests of the army, who offered him a large sum of money— 



282 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

$500.00 — if he would disclose the hiding place of a certain lot of 
cotton, the officer being supposed to possess the secret. The lieu- 
tenant assured the anxious trafficker in contraband goods that 
he could lead him to even a larger amount of cotton than had 
been named, but that he must have the money first. So another 
officer was called as a witness, and the money paid over, when the 
lieutenant conducted the cotton buyer to a place on the wharf 
where a large amount of cotton had been collected for shipment, 
and pointing to it, said, "There is all the cotton you are looking 
for," and walked away, leaving the briber utterly dazed at the 
audacity of the thing. That the seeker after contraband cotton 
did not take this huge joke submissively is shown by the fact that 
he entered a complaint against the officer, which resulted in a 
•court martial and conviction, sentencing him to be dismissed from 
the service with loss of pay, etc. 

This officer was one of the bravest soldiers in the army ; en- 
listing in 1861, he had been promoted through all the grades to 
the rank of First Lieutenant. Surely the long and faithful service 
of this officer, his unswerving patriotism and devotion to duty, 
merited kinder consideration at the hands of the reviewing au- 
thority. What, then, was his reward for long years of arduous 
and dangerous service? Degraded, a stigma put on his name, 
his pay — the little pittance faithfully earned at the risk of life 
and limb, withheld from him, his future prospects ruined, broken 
in health and spirit, he is kicked out like a worthless tramp. The 
other officer implicated in the joke, for joke it really was, the 
-money being refunded, died before the case came to trial. 

This and similar cases rendered cotton buyers and camp fol- 
lowers extremely unpopular in the army. This nefarious traffic 
grew to such an extent and caused so much trouble that General 
Grant issued orders forbidding speculators of all kinds entering 
his lines. It was reserved, however, for the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry to put an effective quietus to the traffic, though not till 
murder had been added to their other crimes. 



SOLDIER STABBED BY COTTON BUYER. 

In the summer of 1864 our regiment was camped at Vicksburg 
down on the river front, below the old warehouse which was 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 283 

used to store ordnance in. The guarding of this building de- 
volved on our regiment, a special detail for that purpose being 
made daily. The combustible nature of the material stored in 
the building required close watching, therefore the instrn 
to the guard were very strict in the matter of allowing any one 
near the building. 

This guard was approached one day by a well-dressed man. 
who disputed the right of the guard to stop him, stating that he 
had a right to go where he pleased. The guard, however, barred 
the way, when the man sprang upon him and cut him with a 
dirk, inflicting a wound from which he died. 

The man was taken into custody by the officer of the guard 
and placed in the guard house. The whole regiment became great- 
ly incensed at the outrage, and threats were freely made. Colonel 
Osband being temporarily absent, Major Cook took the matter 
in hand, called the officers together and organized a court mar- 
tial. The prisoner being brought before the court, proved to be 
one of the obnoxious cotton buyers. The court, after hearing the 
evidence pro and con, returned a verdict of willful and unpro- 
voked murder, assessing the penalty to be death by immediate 
hanging, which was carried out by hanging the man to a telegraph 
pole near the scene of the murder. 

When Colonel Osband returned to camp, he was fully in- 
formed of thie matter, and the written proceedings of the court 
martial placed in his hands, who in turn forwarded same to head- 
quarters. There was some talk of an inquiry being made, but 
nothing further was ever heard of it. After this example of sum- 
many justice, cotton buyers found the business unprofitable 
around Vicksbursr. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

REMINISCENCE BY LIEUTENANT EDWIN FARLEY. 

The innate goodness of women and the peculiarities of human 
nature. 

Every Union soldier whose fortune it was to invade the en- 
emy's country during the war between the States, can testify to 
the unquestioned loyalty of the women of the South to the cause 



284 Third U. S. Colored 'Cavalry. 

of secession, and cannot fail to remember how, like their sisters 
in all parts of the world, they had their opinions, likes and dis- 
likes and expressed their views freely at all times and on all oc- 
casions when things ran counter to their ideas. Regarding all 
Union soldiers as the wicked invaders of their country, these 
zealous ladies, when excited by our presence, sometimes forgot 
the proprieties and hurled spiteful and ugly epithets at us. 

Under fire of their scathing remarks it was often difficult to 
restrain our resentment and retaliate by talking back. But, be 
it said to the credit of the officers of the regiment, they never 
forgot the respect 'due to a lady, and, swallowing their resent- 
ment, wisely held their peace, knowing full well that, woman-like, 
they would have the last word. 

The ladies of the South, God bless them, are as sweet of tem- 
per and kind of heart as can be found in any land under the sun. 

A number of the officers of the regiment met their affinity in 
the Southland during the war, and, when the smoke of battle 
cleared away and the wbite-robed angel of peace resumed her 
sway, there were many happy weddings — links forged in the 
chain that now reunites the once warring sections in a common 
brotherhood. The writer deems himself fortunate in being one 
of these. 

To illustrate the natural goodness of woman's heart, which 
predominates always, I will mention an incident that occurred 
during the war, and to which I was a party. 

The great Grierson raid, that swept down through Mississippi, 
from Memphis to Vicksburg, in the winter of 1864-5, leaving 
death and desolation in its wake, could not fail to impress the peo- 
ple with the horrors of war, and no wonder then that they felt 
bitter against the authors of their distress and ruin. 

The battle of Egypt Station had been fought and won. The 
garrison, together with its one thousand brave defenders, had 
been captured, and many killed and wounded. The Yankee raid- 
ers were flushed with victory, while the soldiers of the Confed- 
eracy and their sympathizing friends were correspondingly dis- 
heartened. From Egypt Station, our regiment was sent on a 
mission of further destruction, tearing up railroads, burning 
bridges and destroying the enemy's supplies, Vicksburg being 
our objective point. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 285 

About ten o'clock on the morning of January 2, 1865, we ran 
into an unexpected and superior force of the enemy at Franklin. 
The force encountered proved to be that of General Wirt Adams, 
which, by forced march, had crossed the country the night before 
to cut us off from the main command and capture or destroy us. 
This move of the enemy was well conceived, they chose their own 
position and mode of attack, were greatly superior in numbers, 
and had the advantage of preparations, being the first to attack. 

The attack was a complete surprise to us, and that we snatched 
victory from what threatened certain defeat, is due to the cool 
head and bull-dog tenacity of Major Main, commanding the reg- 
iment, who, though almost whipped, would not acknowledge it, 
and who, for nearly two hours, gave and received sledge hammer 
blows, forcing the enemy to retire from the field, leaving his dead 
and wounded where they fell. I say that had it not been for 
Major Main's determination the enemy would have accomplished 
their purpose, at least so far as defeating us in battle. 

In this engagement the writer was severely wounded, faint- 
ing on the field from loss of blood ; fortunately, however, the 
timely attention of the regimental surgeon, Doctor Beadles, the 
flow of blood was stopped, which otherwise must have proved 
fatal. With my wounded arm bandaged and in a sling, I felt so 
much revived that I mounted mydiorse and proceeded on with 
the regiment. The ride of one hundred miles to Vicksburg was 
an ordeal I look back on even now with a shudder. My arm was 
badly lacerated, the muscles being torn and bruised, a stumble 
or misstep of my horse sent a shock all over my body. I suffered 
so much from the jolt of the horse that the advisability of my 
being left at some wayside house was discussed, but I would not 
listen to it, the chances of my falling into the hands of the enemy 
were too great, and as visions of Libby prison rose before me. I 
determined to go through to Vicksburg with the regiment. 

The march led through a sparsely settled section of the State, 
the weather was cold, rainy, cheerless, and the long, dreary days 
and nights brought no surcease of pain to my wounded arm, pre- 
cluding even the sweet boon of sleep. It was thus that one day, 
weary and worn out with pain and the loss of sleep, the band- 
ages on my arm becoming loose, causing the blood to flow anew, 
it became necessary to stop at the first house we came to and ad- 
just the bandages and procure fresh ones. 



286 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Captain Coykendall, Lieutenant Geary, and a detail of men 
from my company, conducted me to the door of a double log house 
near the road, which stood in a small clearing- in a lonely, deso- 
late region. Everything about the premises denoted neglect, 
poverty and want. Knocking and receiving no response, Captain 
Coykendall pushed the door partly open, when a shrill female 
voice within ordered us in harsh tones to go away, saying : "You 
nasty Yankees, don't come in here." My wound was bleeding 
profusely, and we had no time to waste in parley, so Captain 
Coykendall, pushing the door wide open, stepped inside, where an 
old woman, evidently about sixty years of age, was bending over 
a smoldering fire on the hearth. She was smoking a cob pipe 
and viciously stirring the embers with a wooden poking stick, 
in which she was roasting sweet potatoes. Shaking the poking 
stick at us as we entered, she exclaimed in an angry tone : "Be- 
gone, you Yankee thieves ; I wish General Adams had killed the 
last one of you." As I was brought into her presence, however, 
smeared with blood and looking the picture of distress, a won- 
derful change came over the old lady ; from a look of scorn and 
hate, her features softened to an expression of kindest sympathy, 
and advancing she said: "Come right in, you poor man," and to 
my companions, "Lay him carefully on the bed." 

The first sight of distress had touched a sympathetic cord in 
the motherly heart of this dear old woman. She brought water 
and fresh bandages and carefully bound up my arm with that 
tender deftness peculiar to a woman's touch. She preferred the 
hospitality of her house, saying that she would take good care 
of me and see that I was not molested in any way, even by the 
Confederate soldiers should they come that way. 

We were deeply touched by the old lady's kindness, and want- 
ed to reward her, but she felt offended at the mention of it. But 
the soldiers had some coffee in their haversacks, all of which we 
left in the house, and for which we felt paid tenfold by the glad 
expression in her eyes. And so we parted with mutual expres- 
sions of srood will. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 287 



CHAPTER XXV. 

REMINISCENCES BY FIRST LIEUTENANT A. H. CARSON. 

I, with other officers and men having no mounts, joined the 
Yazoo expedition at Yazoo City, February 10, 1864, going up 
the river with Colonel Osband and that part of the regiment not 
already with the -expedition. We took our saddles and arms with 
us, it being proposed to mount us on stock which had already 
been captured by the commnad. 

At Greenwood we were furnished mounts, horses and mules, 
which had been captured. Many of these animals were raw, un- 
broken animals, but our men being good riders, these animals 
were soon made manageable. 

On the 16th we started out on a scout with the regiment, Col- 
onel Osband commanding. The column headed toward Grenada, 
the object being to locate the rebel cavalry under General For- 
rest, and, if possible, open communication with the cavalry force 
of General Smith, who was marching south from Memphis to 
form a junction with the army under General Sherman, then 
threatening Jackson, Miss. Nothing occurred to seriously im- 
pede our march until we were within a few miles of Grenada, 
when we encountered a considerable force of rebel cavalry, who 
stubbornly resisted our advance, but after a sharp skirmish they 
were driven back. Fortunately for us, however, we here learned 
that General Forrest was then in Grenada with his entire com- 
mand, 5,000 or 6,000 strong. So our little force made a right- 
about face and started back to Greenwood, which place we reached 
at 2:30 the next morning, having marched 82 miles, the great- 
est distance, I think, the regiment ever marched without rest. 
This distance was verified by information obtained from citizens 
living in and about Greenwood, a memorandum of which I made 
at the time. 



A SCOUT TO CARROLLTON AND BLACKHAWK. 

On the morning of February 19, 1864, Major Cook, with- a 
detachment of 200 of the regiment, was ordered to proceed to 



288 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Carrollton and Blackhawk, white the 'balance of the command em- 
barked and proceeded down the river to Sidon, where they were 
to wait for us. Major Cook left Greenwood before it was fairly 
daylight, and moved rapidly toward Carrollton, an interior town 
about 15 miles from Greenwood. On nearing the town our force 
was divided, one division of it making a circuit, entered the town 
from the rear to cut off retreat, while the other division charged 
directly into the town. These movements were so quickly exe- 
cuted that the rebels were completely surprised and unable to 
escape. When we entered the town, we found all the male popu- 
lation, including several rebel recruiting officers and numbers of 
rebel soldiers, assembled at the court house, where they had met 
to exchange congratulations on being spared a visit from us, 
having received information that the "Yankees" had gone, bag 
and baggage — taken to their boats and sailed away down the 
river. Their amazement, therefore, was great at our sudden ap- 
pearance among them. The women were* well-nigh paralyzed 
with fear, and the men stood speechless — dumbfounded in our 
presence. This was their first sight of the Yankees whom they 
had been led to believe were monsters of cruelty, rspecting neither 
age nor sex, the despoilers of their homes and country. 

But after the first paroxysm of fear had passed away and they 
regained their senses, seeing that perfect order and discipline was 
maintained, and that they were being treated with kindness and 
civility, a change came over them. They were greatly surprised, 
expecting violence and outrage, they were receiving only kind- 
ness and protection. 

It was a revelation to them, so contrary to the teachings of 
the advocates of secession, that they could hardly believe the senses 
of their own eyes. When we took our departure, the people bade 
us a friendly adieu, saying that our soldiers had been more or- 
derly than their own. 

The rebel recruiting officers and soldiers found in Carrollton 
were, of course, treated as prisoners of war and taken back with 
us to the boats. 

Leaving Carollton, the command pushed on to Blackhawk, 
where we captured another recruiting station, also quite a number 
of rebel soldiers, stragglers and furloughed men from Forrest's 
cavalry, not, however, without some slight skirmishing. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 289 

It being now almost dark, the command moved out about five 
miles and bivouaced for the night, having marched over forty 
miles that day. 

Resuming the march on the following morning, we reached 
Sidon about 9 a. m., where we found the boats waiting for us, and 
embarking, the expedition started down the river, arriving at Ya- 
zoo City on the 28th. 

When near Yazoo City, the cavalry was landed and ordered to 
move through the city and picket all the roads leading thereto. 

Major Cook was ordered to take 40 men and make a recon- 
noissance on the Benton road, where he encountered General 
Ross' Texas brigade, with whom he had some lively fighting. 
Captain Frank Cook being severely wounded. 

Major Cook retreated, closely pressed by the enemy, whom 
he fought every step of the way until he reached a small redoubt 
east of the city, where, being reinforced, the enemy wre checked. 

From that date, February 28th, to the morning of March 5th, 
the enemy kept up an almost continuous attack on our picket 
lines., and on the morning of the 5th, having been largely rein- 
forced, they advanced and precipitated a general attack all along 
our lines. 

At the beginning of the fight Sunday morning, March 5th, I 
was in the -redoubt with the regiment, but was ordered by Major 
Cook to go back to our camp, which was north of the city, and 
bring up every man who was able to fight. 

I succeeded in getting about fifteen men together, all of whom 
were complaining, but were not very sick. With these men, I 
started back toward the redoubt, but in the meantime the enemy 
had moved around on our flank and rear, cutting me completely 
off from the redoubt. I then started back toward the city, when 
I fell in with Lieutenant Farley, who like myself, was taking a 
squad of men to the redoubt. We joined forces and started back 
to the city, when we encountered the advance of General Rich- 
ardson's forces, coming in on the Lexington road. We fought 
our way through them, losing three men killed and four wounded, 
and reached the city, where we found the streets barricaded with 
cotton bales, a precaution taken by Colonel Coates. We took po- 
sition behind the cotton bales, and did good service in aiding to 
repulse several desperate charges of the enemy. Colonel Coates 



290 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

procured a howitzer from one of the gun-boats, which he had 
placed in position to rake the streets, but when the enemy made a 
rush to take our position, the men in charge of the gun deserted 
it and ran back to the boat. Another gun-squad was, however, 
quickly procured, who handled the gun with splendid effect dur- 
ing the remainder of the day's fighting. 

When the men deserted the gun, the enemy was pressing us 
hard at every point, and things were looking decidedly gloomy, 
but every man stood unflinchingly at his post, pouring in a hot 
fire on the enemy from every available point. The enemy made 
several desperate charges to carry our position, and were as often 
repulsed, and only yielded after ten hours of the hardest fighting 
I ever experienced. 

The immediate cause of the enemy giving way was brought 
about by a flank movement executed by Lieutenant Farley and 
myself with such men as we could rally, with whom we gained a 
position on the enemy's flank, where, under cover of some build- 
ings, we opened a raking and deadly fire, which threw that part 
of their line into confusion and, spreading, started a general stam- 
pede, leaving us' masters of the field. 

In the meantime a life and death struggle had been going on 
at the redoubt on the hill, Benton road, where Major McKee, 
with a detachment of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, and Major 
Cook, with a detachment of our regiment, were holding a rebel 
force of ten times their number at bay. 

We watched our flag with breathless interest as it waved over 
the redoubt. Its presence there meant everything to us, for had 
it gone down in defeat, the entire force of the enemy would have 
been hurled upon us, and vice versa. Our forces in the redoubt 
were equally encouraged by the determined stand our troops were 
making in the city. 

Great credit is due to the bravery and unyielding determina- 
tion of Majors McKee and Cook, who positively refused to con- 
sider any terms of surrender, though surrounded on all sides by 
ten times their number, and too, with many of their bravest 
officers and men killed and wounded. 

Officers of less courage and determination would have yielded 
under such a pressure, but spurning the threat of the rebel com- 
mander to kill and spare not, they fought on with a sublime cour- 
age that challenges comparison. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 291 

I have always believed that, had the forces defending Yazoo 
City on that occasion been all white troops, the result might have 
been different, not that the Eleventh Illinois Infantry entertained 
for a moment any idea of surrendering, but from the fact that 
the colored troops, expecting no quarter, protested against pos- 
sible surrender from the start, their officers declaring that they 
would not be a party to any terms of surrender. 

With victory their only alternative, the officers of the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry and those of the Eighth Louisiana, colored, 
would have died fighting with arms in their hands, whatever 
might have been the action of the white troops, but all honor to 
them, they chose to stand or fall with the black troops. The con- 
tinuance of such an unequal struggle raises both white and col- 
ored soldiers to the height of heroes. 

The officers of colored troops knew full well what they had to 
faoe when they entered that branch of the service, and when the 
test came they met it unflinchingly. Hence the record of the Third 
U. S. Colored Cavalry shows no losses under the heading of 
"Taken prisoners." Their missing are accounted for in the list 
of "Killed in action." 

In the Yazoo City fight, we lost two of our bravest officers, 
viz, Lieutenant Eugene E. Walter, brother-in-law of Colonel Os- 
band. He was the joy and life of the camp and bivouac. Being 
a splendid singer, one of the Lombard troop, the patriotic songs 
he sang inspired all with a spirit that made the regiment invinc- 
ible. Struck by a fragment of shell, his life blood iebbed away 
midst the smoke and roar of the conflict. 

Lieutenant Archibald Stewart: Soldierly, manly and brave, a 
perfect type of the volunteer soldier, standing in the breach, con- 
spicuous by his commanding figure, was shot in the head, his life 
blood oozing away as the conflict ceased. 



EXPEDITION TO JACKSON AND PEARL RIVER. 
JULY, 1864. 

Leaving Vicksburg, July 2, 1864, the command marched to 
Black River, where it camped for the night. Soon after going 
into camp, General Dennis, commanding, received information 
that the enemy were concentrating a large force in his front, and 



292 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

desiring to communicate with General Slocum, in Vicksburg, I 
was detailed to carry the dispatch back to Vicksburg. 

The mission was a hazardous one, and required a man who 
had some knowledge of the country, roads and byways. I had 
scouted the country pretty thoroughly between Vicksburg and 
Black River, hence my detail for the duty. 

Bands of rebel scouts and spies were ever on our trail, and it 
could hardly be expected that a courier could go back to Vicks- 
burg without incurring great risks, but I rather relished the pros- 
pect of adventure the trip offered, and readily accepted the detail. 
I was well mounted and had no fear of being run down. Besides 
the written dispatches I carried, I was made acquainted with 
their contents, so that in case of being captured, the dispatches 
were to be destroyed. It was ten o'clock that night when I left 
our camp at Black River. The night was clear, the stars shone 
brightly, but there was no moon. I rode along cautiously, keep- 
ing in the shadow of the trees that lined the road in many places, 
and reconnoitred before exposing myself in the clearer light of 
the open country. 

I had covered about one-third of the distance to Vicksburg, 
when I stumbled upon a house standing in a small clearing, and 
was only advised of its close proximity by the baying of the dogs. 
On closer observation I discovered several horses tied to the 
fence in front of the bouse. 

That there were rebel soldiers in the house seemed certain. 
The dogs had given the a'larm, and I knew the soldiers would be 
out in a minute. I was too close to the house to retreat back to 
the woods, while in front 1 could soon reach the shelter of the 
timber on the other side of the clearing. So without a second's 
hesitation, I drove the spurs into my horse's flanks and dashed 
forward. As I passed the house, the rebel soldiers were already 
coming out, some of them on the porch and others running for 
their horses, and all shouting "Halt," "Shoot him," and the next 
second a fusillade of shots greeted me, but thanks to the dark- 
ness or bad marksmanship, their shots went wide of the mark. I 
could hear the clatter of their horses as they came on in pursuit, 
but I felt safe as far as they were concerned. 

I had faith in the speed and endurance of my horse, who was 
covering the ground at a tremendous pace, and I could laugh at 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 293 

pursuit, and sent back a defiant shout, the echo of which came 
hack mingled with the report of their guns. I soon distanced my 
pursuers, who evidently gave up the chase, as I saw nor heard 
nothing more of them. 

I reached Vicksburg without any further incident, and de- 
livered the dispatches to General Slocum at four o'clock the next 
morning. 

I rejoined the command at Black River the next 'evening, the 
3d, returning with General Slocum and hiis escort. The General 
came to the front to assume command of the expedition. 

Crossing Black River on the morning of the 4th, the command 
took up line of march toward Clinton. When near Clinton, the 
advance encountered the rebel cavalry under General Wirt 
Adams. The Eleventh Illinois Cavalry had the advance and 
drove the enemy through and beyond the town, where they made 
a stand and offered battle. 

The Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, Major Cook commanding, 
was dismounted and sent to the right of the town to make a flank 
attack, when the enemy again retreated. The command camped 
that night near Clinton, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, or the 
greater part of it, doing picket duty. 

On the morning of the 5th, the command marched at daylight, 
taking the road to Jackson, the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry having 
the advance. 

The enemy were soon encountered and seemed to be in 
greater force than on the previous day. Our advance was stub- 
bornly resisted, but we pushed the enemy back slowly. At this 
point the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry took the advance, relieving 
the Eleventh Illinois. We continued to drive the enemy for sev- 
eral miles, when he made a stand at a point where the wagon 
road crossed the railroad west of Queens Hill. We charged them, 
breaking their formation, and followed them so closely that their 
battery on Queens Hill dare not fire on us lest they kill their own 
men. Our support was too far in the rear to risk another charge, 
otherwise we could have taken the battery. 

At this point we obliqued to the right, seeking cover in a strip 
of timber about 1,000 yards from the battery, where Major Cook 
formed the regiment and waited for the infantry to come up. the 
battery continuing to shell us all the time. 



294 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

It was while in this position that Sergeant Joseph Sedgwick, 
of my company, was killed by a fragment of shell, which struck 
him just above the right ear. He was sitting on his horse at the 
time, next to me and on my left. The shell struck the ground in 
front of us, bounded over us and exploded on striking the ground 
in our rear, a fragment of it striking Sergeant Sedgwick, as above 
stated, killing him instantly. When he fell from his horse, I dis- 
mounted and hastened to him, but he was already beyond human 
aid. 

Sergeant Sedgwick was one of the most promising officers in 
the regiment. His bravery, soldierly qualities and fitness to com- 
mand, having been recognized, he had been recommended for 
promotion to the rank of Second Lieutenant. He was about 25 
years of age at the time of his death. He enlisted in the 124th 
Illinois Infantry, August, 1862, at Aurora, Illinois, and served in 
that regiment until April, 1864, participating in all of the battles 
and campaigns of that regiment up to and including the seige of 
Vicksburg. 

In 1864, he was discharged from the 124th Illinois Infantry 
for promotion in the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. He was a 
perfect type of physical manhood, standing six feet in height, of 
a pleasing personality, attracting attention and winning friends 
wherever he moved. I was with him in many battles and cam- 
paigns when we were comrades in the 124th Illinois Infantry. 

While we were in camp at Black River, the first night out 
from Vicksburg, Sergeant Sedgwick seemed to have a premoni- 
tion that his end was near. He intimated to me that this would 
be his last scout. I endeavored to laugh him out of such an idea, 
reasoning that he was not well, and advised him to go back to 
Vicksburg and report to the doctor ; but he would not listen to it, 
saying: "No, Kitt; I'm in good health ; nothing is the matter with 
me; I only feel depressed. If I had a hundred lives and knew 
that I would lose them all by going on this scout, I would not 
now turn back." 

When the infantry came up, the fighting was resumed, and we 
drove the enemy from his position on Queens Hill. Major Cook 
then sent Company F, Lieutenant Randall commanding, on a road 
to the left of Queens Hill and to the intersection of the road run- 
ning north from Jackson to Canton, with orders to watch the 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 295 

movements of the enemy, and to strike a blow if the opportunity 
offered. We struck the rear guard of the rebel column where 
the road we were on crossed the Jackson and Canton road. We 
charged them, capturing- one ambulance, together with the team, 
four mules, and one prisoner, and killed one; we also learned thai 
quite a number of the enemy were wounded. 

The dust raised by the rebel column was plainly visible when 
we captured the ambulance. Receiving orders from Major Cook, 
we fell back, rejoined the command, and went into camp at some 
water ponds near Jackson, on the road leading to Vicksburg. The 
day was very hot; we unsaddled our horses, made coffee, ate our 
hardtack, then stretched ourselves in the shade to rest, when to 
our great surprise and discomfort, about 3 p. m. ''Boots and sad- 
dles" sounded, and in five minutes we were galloping west on the 
Vicksburg road, led by Major Cook. The cause of this sudden 
and unexpected move was occasioned by a flank movement of the 
enemy. General Wirt Adams, having been reinforced, had moved 
around our flank, with the evident intention of getting in our rear 
and cut off our retreat to Vicksburg. 

We met them about one mile out. They were coming in on 
our flank and rear. Our regiment was quickly dismounted and 
formed along a rail fence running east and west. The rebels ad- 
vanced, mounted, across an open field. They greatly outnumbered 
us, and made several desperate charges to break our lines, but we 
held our ground for about two hours, when the infantry came to 
our 'support. The stubborn stand our regiment made on that oc- 
casion against greatly superior numbers, elicited the praise of the 
entire command. No veteran infantry could have stood that fire 
more unflinchingly. Every minute of the time, nearly two hours, 
we were under a galling fire. Splinters from the rail fence in 
front of us, cut by the enemy's bullets, flew in our faces. The 
officers walked up and down our line, cheering the men by word 
and example, conspicuous among them being the tall form of 
Major Cook. I remember one order he gave, which, though not 
found in St. George Cook's tactics, was nevertheless suitable for 
the occasion. It was this: "Give them hell, men," and I guess the 
rebels themselves thought it was pretty sulphury around there. 

We had a large wagon train with this expedition, which the 
enemy made frantic efforts to cut off and capture, but we fought 



296 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

them off and did not lose a wagon. We camped that night, July 
5th, near Jackson, where we formed a junction with fhle column 
under General S locum. 

Marching at daylight on the morning of the 6th, the command 
moved toward Clinton, when the enemy was again encountered, 
being in increased force. This day was marked by some hard 
fighting, the infantry and artillery taking the leading part, the 
roar of cannon and the rattle of musketry being incessant. The 
fighting continued all day, neither side gaining much advantage. 
At the close of the day, the command fell back and bivouaced for 
the night, the men lying on their arms. 

On the morning of the 7th, the command moved at daylight, 
heading for Vicksburg. The enemy were on the alert, and the 
fighting commenced with the first movement of the troops. The 
enemy's cavalry swarmed all around us, and their artillery com- 
manded every available position of advantage. 

It looked as though we were completely 'surrounded, but the 
command fought its way through, gained the Vicksburg road, 
and then commenced a masterly retreat. The enemy made des- 
perate attempts to capture our wagon train, but we fought them 
off while we ran the train past the danger point. 

The command reached Vicksburg on the evening of the 9th, 
utterly worn out. 



A RAID IN THE DEER CREEK COUNTRY. 

An exciting chase. Could not shoot him, but knocked him off his 
horse and captured hint. 

Tn the summer and fall of 1864, our regiment was stationed at 
Vicksburg, our camp being down on the river bank, below the 
old storehouse, which was used for the storage of ordinance, the 
guard for which was furnished by our regiment. While occupy- 
ing this camp, we were kept pretty busy scouting the country in 
different directions. The extent and duration of these raids were 
governed by circumstances, sometimes covering but a few days, 
and frequently weeks. 

That section of Mississippi lying between the Mississippi and 
the Yazoo rivers, known as the Yazoo delta, being somewhat iso- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 207 

lated from the active operations of the Union army, it being in- 
accessible except by boat from Vicksburg. It offered a compara- 
tively safe field for the operations of bands of rebel cavalry, and 
also afforded a source from which to draw supplies for their 
army in the field. Furthermore, these bands of rebel cavalry 
seriously interrupted navigation on the Mississippi River. 

From their rendezvous in the interior they would sally forth, 
appearing unexpectedly at unprotected points along the river, lay 
in ambush, decoy steamboats to land, capture, plunder and burn 
them. 

After one of these successful raids, they had only to return in- 
to the interior, made difficult of pursuit by the numerous small 
streams, bayous and lakes intervening, chief among which were 
Deer Creek, Rolling Fork and the Sunflower. It was soon after 
a steamboat had been captured and destroyed by these bands of 
rebel cavalry, that the commanding general at Vicksburg sent out 
three raiding parties, two proceeding up the Mississippi River by 
boat, to land at different points and scout the interior. 

While the third, 350 men and officers of the Third U. S. Col- 
ored Cavalry, and one small field-piece, Major Cook commanding, 
was sent up the Yazoo River, by boat, to disembark above the 
mouth of Deer Creek, and march into the interior, gain the 
enemy's rear, find their camp and destroy them. While the scout- 
ing parties sent up the Mississippi River would be in position to 
cut off the retreat of the enemy in that direction or northward. 

On the morning of September 21, 1864, Major Cook embarked 
hiis command and proceeded up the Yazoo, disembarked that night 
after dark, in the woods, and marching about four miles into the 
interior, camped for the night. Marched the next morning as 
soon as it was light enough to see the road, going up Deer Creek 
on the east side. 

Major Cook gave me the advance with twelve of the best 
mounted men in the regiment, with orders to let no rebel picket 
escape; in fact, to run down and capture everything in sight, the 
plan being to surprise the rebels in their camp. We moved at a 
rapid pace, the command held in hand for immediate action. 
When within about three miles of Rolling Fork, we came upon a 
rebel picket of five men, stationed at a cotton gin. We charged 
them on sight, capturing four of them before they could mount 



293 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

their horses. One of the men, being- mounted, fled. Turning in 
his saddle, he fired his shotgun, both barrels, at us, then, throwing 
away his gun, urged his horse with hat and spurs to his utmost 
speed. He was mounted on a fine horse, and led us a lively chase. 

I fired the loads from both of my revolvers at him at about 
forty yards, my men also fired with revolvers and carbines when 
the turn of the road was favorable, but none of our shot hit him ; 
he seemed to bear a charmed life. Finally, however, plunging the 
spurs into my horse's flanks, I made a burst of speed that 
brought me along side the fellow, when, seizing him by his long- 
hair, I pulled him off his horse, sending him sprawling in the 
road. He struck the ground with considerable force. It was 
something like jumping off a train under full speed, and the 
momentum sent him spinning around like a top. On regaining 
his feet he was badly dazed, and, putting his hand to his head, 
looked around as one bewildered. Finally his gaze rested on me, 
when the true situation of things seemed to dawn on him, and he 
said : 

"Yank, you're no good on the shoot, but you're the toughest 
wrestler I've ever tackled. Now you've got me, what you going 
to do with me ? I s'pose my name is mud, but don't turn me over 
to them niggers. You may have that cussed horse of mine if you 
can catch him. I have always thought he could run, but he has 
lost me this race, and you- can have him and welcome. The next 
time I want to get away quick, I'll walk. What's the use being 
in the cavalry anyway. Say, Yank, you've got us licked. It ain't 
fair to fight us with our own niggers." 

Thus, I believe, he would have talked on interminably, but I 
cut him short by ordering bim to mount behind one of the other 
prisoners. He obeyed reluctantly, saying that his head felt dizzy, 
besides he had quit the cavalry for good, and commenced to 
eulogize the infantry service, but seeing that his only auditors 
were his fellow prisoners, he relapsed into silence. 

The picket we had captured had been sent out from the main 
body of rebels, who were at their headquarter camp on the Helen 
Johnson plantation, and who, hearing the firing, quickly de- 
camped. However, we followed them at a gallop and overtook 
their rear guard, with whom we had a lively skirmish. The regi- 
ment coming up, we followed them, engaging in a running fight 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 299 

for about fifteen miles, driving them across the Sunflower River. 

In this skirmish we killed and wounded quite a number, and 
took 12 prisoners. Returning, we camped that night at the John- 
son plantation, occupying the quarters the rebels had so lately 
and precipitately vacated, and which we destroyed the next morn- 
ing, together with all of their camp equipage and stores. 

On the following day, the 3d, we scouted up Deer Creek. Dur- 
ing the day, we met a rebel captain, who, with 12 men, rebel sol- 
diers, were driving 300 head of fat cattle, purchased for the rebel 
army. These cattle were branded C. S. In the skirmish that en- 
sued, eight of these rebel soldiers were killed, the captain and the 
other four soldiers were captured. 

We drove the cattle through to the Mississippi River, from 
which point they were shipped to Vicksburg for the use of the 
army. We reached the Smith plantation on the evening of the 
4th, where we met the Fifth Illinois Cavalry. 

On the 26th, we embarked for Vicksburg, going down the 
Mississippi. Thus we had made a wide circuit, covering a large 
scope of country, punished the enemy, and made navigation safer 
on the Mississippi River. 



THE EXPEDITION TO PORT GIBSON, NATCHEZ AND WOODVILLE. 
SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER, 1864. 

/ was detailed to act as Adjutant during this expedition. 

This expedition left Vicksburg on the night of September 29, 
1864, on transports, and proceeded down tbe river. It was com- 
posed of the following troops : Fourth, Fifth and Eleventh Illi- 
nois Cavalry, Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, one section of the Twenty-sixthi Ohio Battery, and one 
section of the Second Illinois Light Artillery, all under command 
of Colonel E. D. Osband. 

The object of the expedition was to break up a rebel force of 
cavalry and artillery, who were interfering with navigation on the 
Mississippi River. Just prior to the embarkation of this expe- 
dition, the Steamer White Cloud, coming up the river from \Y\v 
Orleans, was fired into by artillery and badly damaged, and the 
lives of many passengers endangered. 



300 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

We made our first landing at Bruinsburg, Miss., where we 
disembarked, and marched to Port Gibson, near which place we 
encountered a small force of rebel cavalry, with whom our ad- 
vance, Third U. S. Colored Cavalry, had a skirmish, killing two 
of the enemy, and sustaining a loss of one man killed. The com- 
mand camped near Port Gibson that night. 

October 1st, marched at daylight, reaching Rodney that even- 
ing, whene the command camped for the night. 

October 2d, marched at 4 a. m., passing through Fayette 
about noon. Our regiment had the advance and, when near Cole's 
Creek, encountered a foroe of rebel cavalry, killing one, mortally 
wounding one and capturing five. 

October 3d, marched at daylight, our regiment flanking the 
column. Major Cook having learned that a rebel picket of six 
men were guarding a lot of cotton stored in a gin-house, which 
was situated a few miles off our road, on the plantation of Jacob 
Thompson, Secretary of the Interior under President Buchanan, 
he suggested the idea of capturing the picket: I volunteered to 
take a few picked men and do the job. The Major acquiesced. I 
called on Captain Emery, commanding Company B, of our regi- 
ment, for a detail of six of his best mounted men. The rebel cav- 
alry were hanging on our flanks, and it was more than probable 
that we would 'encounter some of them, in which event it would 
simply be a test of speed between us ; hence my desire for good 
mounts and men whom I could depend upon in an emergency. 

Captain Emery gave me six men, whom, he said, would be 
hiard to catch, adding, "they can ride all over their horses, and 
will stay with you in a pinch." With these men, I struck out 
across the country, following neighborhood and plantation roads. 
The gin-house and plantation buildings stood in the middle of a 
large clearing. We got our first view of it from a cluster of 
trees, which screened us from view, probably about one-fourth of 
a mile distant. We could see no one moving about the buildings, 
and I concluded to make a dash. We succeeded in getting within 
about 200 yards of the gin-house before being discovered. As we 
dashed up, circling the building, one of the men, being mounted, 
fired on us, then fled across the field, followed by one of his com- 
rades, who was on foot, the others taking refuge in the gin-house. 
Leaving two of my men to guard the building, I pressed on after 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 301 

the fleeing men. The man who was on foot surrendered on being 
hard pressed, but the mounted man would have reached the woods 
and escaped but for a lucky shot from my revolver, which dis- 
abled his horse, and a second shot that broke hiis arm. 

When I rode up to where he lay, his horse had fallen with 
him, hie would have shot me, but his pistol missed fire, and before 
he could use it again, I struck the pistol from his hand with my 
sabre. Taking him back to the gin-house, we got our prisoners to- 
gether, six of them, and started to rejoin the column. 

I disposed of the prisoners by giving one in charge of each of 
my men, with bridle-reins tied to the pommel of their saddles. 
With this arrangement the prisoners had no control of their 
horses. They all had good horses, and we made good time. 

During our absence the column had moved steadily along, and 
was, by this time, some miles in advance of us. 

We regained the road over which the column had passed, and 
were moving along at a brisk gallop, when we unexpectedly ran 
into a squad of rebel cavalry in the road ahead of us, going the 
same way. There were twelve of them, so honors were easy as 
they counted, for they had not recognized the fact that half of 
my men were prisoners. They had dropped in behind our column, 
and were evidently looking for stragglers. We opened fire on 
them at sight without abating our speed, when they fled, return- 
ing our fire as they went. The road being fenced, they could 
not immediately leave it, and kept on ahead of us. 

We had to threaten our prisoners with instant death if they 
attempted escape of made any sign of recognition to their friends. 

We were wishing, therefore, that the party ahead of us would 
find a way to get out of the road and leave us a free passage, when 
firing in front brought us all to a stand. The rear guard of our 
column had loitered on the way, and hearing the firing, faced 
about and met our fleeing adversaries, who, now caught between 
two fires, submitted to the inevitable without further resistance. 
Thus adding twelve more to my list of prisoners. 

On rejoining the command, I took the wounded man to our 
surgeon, whb patched him up and put him in the ambulance. 

We reached Natchez that afternoon, October 3d, near which 
place we camped for the night. 

October 4th, the command was embarked on transports and, 



302 Third U. S. Colored 'Cavalry. 

at 6 o'clock that evening, proceeded down the river to Tunica 
Bend, La., reaching there at 4 a. m. on the 5th, disembarked and 
took up line of march toward Woodville, Miss. Marching about 
ten miles, heavy firing being heard in the direction of Bayou Sara, 
the course of the column was deflected in that direction, but the 
firing soon ceased, when the direct march to Woodville was re- 
sumed. 

As the command came within striking distance of Woodville, 
the Fifth Illinois Cavalry and our regiment charged into the 
town, surprising the enemy, and capturing twelve men, one cais- 
son, twelve army wagons with teams, and a large amount of com- 
missary stores, C. S. Army. Moving out about four miles, the 
command camped for the night. 

Having been ordered back to the boats with the prisoners, 
captured property, etc., I did not take part in the fight that took 
place the next morning, in which our regiment made a gallant 
sabre charge, capturing a battery of artillery and many prisoners. 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

the: confederate lieutenant's dream. 

Lieutenant Joseph Randall, dubbed by his intimates "Big 
Joe," was the biggest man in the regiment, standing six feet in 
Ms stockings, an avoirdupois tipping the scales at 200. 

He rode a very large horse and carried the largest size sabre. 
Rough of speech, loud of voice, almost boisterous, a very cyclone 
in a fight ; but withal, kind and gentle as a girl when in peaceful 
repose. 

The regiment was on a scout— engaged in a running fight with 
some of Forrest's cavalry. Lieutenant Randall, commanding his 
company, was leading the advance, and had got the enemy on the 
run. 

A rebel lieutenant, poorly mounted, lagged behind, with Big 
Joe a close second, who, closing upon his fleeing antagonist, 
called a halt in no very polite terms, which the fleeing Confed- 
erates heeded not, but acting on the old axiom, "He who fights 
and runs away, will live to fight another day," renewed his efforts 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 803 

to get away, shouting back that he thought he could make it. But 
Big Joe came thundering down upon him with such force tfnat 
horse and rider were both sent sprawling in the road. As the 
plucky reb regained his feet, Big Joe remarked: "Well, you didn't 
make it, did you." "No," said the Confederate, "I thought I 
could, but something struck me. We can't fight giants mounted 
on elephants." 

The captured Lieutenant being a gentleman, coupled with tl le 
philosophical manner he accepted the situation, won favor with 
his captors, and he was invited to share the meagre hospitality 
of headquarter mess, instead of being placed under guard with 
the other prisoners. 

Around the camp fire that night, with pipes well filled after 
a supper of hardtack and coffee, the latter being a great treat to 
the captured lieutenant, he joined in the conversation that en- 
sued. His fine flow of wit and good humor in recounting inci- 
dents of the day's fighting, and of his own capture, was amusing 
to a degree, keeping his listeners in a roar of laughter. 

Gentlemen, said he, until recently, I have been deluded into 
the idea that the Southern Confederacy was the whole thing, but 
since a dream I had a few nights ago, that proposition has been 
knocked higher than Kilroy's kite. Resuming after refilling his 
pipe, he continued : In that dream, I seemed to be standing on a 
'high eminence overlooking a broad, open plain, where were mar- 
shalled vast armies. A sea of glistening bayonets, so to speak, 
stretched away as far as the eye could reach. Presently an of- 
ficer of high rank, presumably General Grant, followed by his 
staff in all the pomp and tinsel of war, appeared on the scene and 
gave this command: "Attention world, bynations right wheel." 

Gentlemen, I made up my mind right there that the Southern 
Confederacy had run up against something, in fact, that it was 
doomed. 

Speaking of his own capture, the Lieutenant said he would 
like to see the man who captured him. Asked to describe him, he 
said : "The man was about ten feet tall, carried a sabre as long as 
a fence rail, and rode a horse as big as an elephant. As he charged 
down upon me, he shouted in a voice of thunder, 'Halt, you rebel 
son of .' The next thing I have any clear idea of, I was roll- 
ing over in the mud." 

Lieutenant Randall being sent for, was duly introduced to his 
captive, whereupon they fought the battle all over again. 



304 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

One by one the tired officers stretched themselves on the 
ground, and were soon oblivious of passing events, while captor 
and captive, now as chummy as two school girls, swapped stories 
until the wee small hours. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

OLD ALE, THE WIZARD OF" THE BLACK REGIMENT. 

Notes from the Secret Service of the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

War brings into action all the latent force of a nation and de- 
velops the character of its people. The inherent energy of man 
reaches its highest standard in times of war, all the noble or vic- 
ious traits of his nature, coming to the fore, are bent for good or 
evil. 

In the red glare of war, the obscure country lad and the dap- 
per city youth oft times rise to the height of heroes, who under 
ordinary circumstances would go through life unnoticed. There 
is no condition in life that so severely tests a man's character as 
the trials and privations incident to an active military campaign. 
In our great civil war, every regiment developed its heroes, the 
majority of them coming from the ranks. Many instances are on 
record where men in the ranks performed noble deeds of daring, 
and it is not too much to say that men raised from the ranks, on 
merit alone, made the most efficient officers. It was this class of 
men who almost invariably led the forlorn hopes. Some of the most 
successful captains, colonels and generals sprang from the ranks. 
The ranks furnished the daring scouts, who were the eyes and ears 
of the army. It could hardly be expected, however, that men would 
be found in the ranks of the black regiments, who possessed the 
qualities that distinguished the white volunteer soldiers of the 
civil war, raising them far above the standard of any troops of 
which history speaks. But in the person of Old Alf, we will pre- 
sent a character who, though an exception, was a fair type of a 
considerable number of men found in the ranks of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry. 

There were many men in this regiment who performed deeds 
of heroism entitling them to special mention in these pages, but 
unfortunately their names cannot now be recalled. 

The most notable among them, however, was Alfred Wood, 
better known as Old Alf. The appellation "Old," though, if ap- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 805 

plied in its true sense, was a misnomer, for he had not seen more 
thlan thirty summers. He being somewhat of an oracle, at least 
in the opinion of his own people, it is presumable that the term 
"Old" was tacked on as a sort of handle to the abbreviation 
"Alf." 

Old Alf, then, as we shall call him, was of mixed blood, Cau-" 
casian, Indian and Negro, with the Indian characteristics largely 
predominating. He was six feet in height, straight as an arrow, 
clear-cut features, eyes black and piercing, and a lithe, sinewy 
frame capable of great physical endurance. Coupled with the 
cunning of the Indian, he possessed many of the nobler traits of 
the white man. The restless spirit of the Indian and the inde- 
pendence of the white man stamped him as one not born to be a 
slave. Obedient and faithful as a servant, it was, however, hard 
for him to acknowledge any man as his rightful and lawful mas- 
ter. 

That the blood of an Indian brave of no mean degree flowed 
in his veins, was plainly apparent. He was of Choctaw origin, 
which tribe once held sway over the territory now embraced by 
the State of Mississippi, and when the march of civilization drove 
them back toward the setting sun — west of the great river, this 
descendant, having a taint of negro blood in his veins, fell a vic- 
tim to the inexorable laws of Southern Slavery. 

Up to the time of the promulgation of the emancipation proc- 
lamation, Old Alf had been the chattel of one Doctor Wood, who 
lived on his plantation in Mississippi. The Doctor prized Old Alf 
highly on account of his many good qualities, trusting him largely 
with the affairs of the plantation. 

While Old Alf did his duty faithfully and well, his restless 
disposition led him into many difficulties, which frequently in- 
volved him in heated discussions with the Doctor. 

The fullblooded negroes could be easily kept in subjection, 
but the blood of a different race ran in Old Alf's veins, and he 
could not be suppressed. The other slaves on the plantation were 
comparatively happy and contented, but Old Alf, without knowing 
why, chafed under the restraint, and indulged in visions of a dif- 
ferent life. Thus Old Alf's life was spent until the monotony 
was 'broken by the thunder of the Union guns at Vicksburg, 
which, speaking in the voice of freedom, conveyed to his un- 
tutored mind its meaning:, and aroused within him the warrior 



306 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

spirit of his race. From that time Old Alf lost interest in the 
affairs of the plantation and began to devise plans for making his 
escape to the Union lines. Being allowed more privileges than 
the other slaves, and but little notice being taken of his actions, 
he was thus greatly favored in carrying out his plans for escape. 
Doctor Wood's plantation was situated in a region remote from 
the active operations of the Union army, and was inaccessible to 
Vieksburg, except by boat, being bounded on the west by the 
Mississippi river, and on the south by the Yazoo, with numerous 
small streams and bayous intervening. 

The country was also patroled by rebel cavalry, all the ferries 
and crossings being closely guarded to prevent the escape of the 
slaves. 

It will be seen therefore how almost impossible it would be for 
a fugitive to run this gauntlet of rivers and guards, to make no 
account of the fierce bloodhounds that would be turned loose on 
his track the moment Ms absence was discovered. But what will 
man not do and dare to gain his freedom ? We are furnished some 
notable examples of this in the bold and desperate breaks made 
by the union prisoners confined in the loathsome prison pens of 
the South. 

The most abject and groveling slave in the South thirsted 
and longed for the God-given boon of freedom. How much more 
intense then must be the yearning for freedom of those in whose 
veins ran the blood of a race who never brooked restraint. With- 
out knowing that the strong arm of the government had already 
sundered the chains that bound him, Old Alf set to work to eman- 
cipate himself, and the perils that beset his path to freedom 
weighed as naught in the balance. The bay of the bloodhound 
on his track would only quicken his step and nerve him to greater 
exertion, nor did he lose faith in the justice and eternal fitness of 
things, when men claiming rank in the highest order of Christian 
civilization joined in the chase. 

By himself and unhampered, Old Alf had little fear of being 
captured and dragged back to bondage. He could take to the 
swamps and evade his pursuers ; he could swim rivers and throw 
the bloodhounds off the scent, and laugh at pursuit. But dear as 
liberty seemed to bim, he would not flee and leave his wife, Aunt 
Margaret, behind. His determination therefore to take his wife 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 307 

with him increased the dangers and lessened his chances of es- 
cape. 

Being familiar with the country and the position of the rebel 
guards, Old Alf laid his plans carefully, and on a dark night, 
mounted on one of the Doctor's horses, with Aunt Margaret up be- 
hind him, he set out on his perilous journey, braving death for 
freedom. We will not follow them in detail ; suffice to say that, 
after undergoing many hardships and narrow escapes from cap- 
ture, abandoning the horse and seeking safety in the swamps, 
they finally reached the Mississippi River, where, after laying in 
hiding for a time, they attracted the attention of a passing 
steamer, and were taken on board, and safely landed within the 
Union lines at Vicksburg. 

Soon after arriving in Vicksburg, Old Alf secured employ- 
ment as body servant to Colonel Osband, then captain command- 
ing General Grant's escort, Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. 

In October following, the organization of the Third U. S. Col- 
ored Cavalry was authorized by the War Department, and re- 
cruiting for the new regiment commenced, Old Alf's name being 
among the first on its rolls. 

Old Alf was soon detailed as orderly at headquarters, and on 
the formation of a headquarter 's mess, Aunt Margaret, who was 
a trained cook, was given charge of the culinary department, and 
well did she discharge the duty. If any of us were sick or 
wounded, it was the motherly hand of Aunt Margaret that min- 
istered to our wants. During the early days of the regiment, Old 
Alf rendered good service in drumming up recruits, and while 
engaged in this duty he was allowed to go and come at will, hav- 
ing a pass good anywhere within the picket lines. 

He was a close observer, and mingling with the people who 
thronged the city, his quick perception and keen insight into the 
motives of people, often led to the detection of spies and traffick- 
ers in contraband goods. 

It was while engaged in this duty that he gave evidence of 
those qualities that subsequently made him famous as a scout. 
Being a superb horseman and a crack shot, quick to act and fear- 
less, he was a match for the best rebel scouts. Possessing a 
thorough knowledge of the country, his services as guide and 
scout were of great value to the regiment in its frequent raids 
into the interior of the State. 



308 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

OLD ALF AS A SCOUT. — A DASH FOR LlFF. 

In December, 1863, an expedition was organized to make a 
scout in Louisiana and Arkansas, starting from Skipwitto's Land- 
ing on the east bank of the Mississippi. The force for this expe- 
dition was composed of a detachment of the Third U. S. Colored 
Cavalry, under command of Major Cook, and a detachment of the 
Fourth Illinois Cavalry, under Lieutenant Main, all under com- 
mand of Major Chapin. 

Embarking on a steamboat, the command was landed on the 
Louisiana side, about 30 miles south of the Arkansas State line. 
Old Alf accompanied this expedition as a scout. He was dis- 
guised as a plantation darkey, and sent out in advance to gain in- 
formation respecting the whereabouts and movements of the 
enemy. He was mounted on a horse whose outward appearance 
would not impress any one favorably, he being thin in flesh and 
angular in form, but really possessed extraordinary qualities of 
speed and endurance. 

On disembarking on the west side of the river, Old Alf, as 
prearranged, disappeared from the command, going to play the 
part of a scout, while the command moved out a few miles and 
camped for the night. 

Old Alf was instructed to proceed into the interior as far as 
practicable that night, to communicate with the colored people 
and gather all the information he could respecting the enemy, who 
were reported to be in considerable force in that vicinity. Old 
Alf rode late into the night without meeting any one, or having 
an opportunity to gain information. He began to feel the need 
of rest and feed for his horse and himself, and he cast about for 
means of procuring it, when coming near to a large plantation, 
the buildings of which were revealed by the light in the windows. 
Dismounting, he tied his horse in the woods at the edge of the 
clearing, and started on a tour of observation. Approaching the 
negro quarters, he found an old darkey and his wife, who, owl- 
like, were sitting in their cabin door, evidently ruminating on 
things past and what the conflict then going on had in store for 
them and their race. Old Alf approached the old couple, telling 
them that he was fleeing from the "secesh," that he wanted food 
for himself and horse. The old woman brought him some corn 
pone and bacon, the remnants of their evening meal, after eating 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 309 

■which, the old man conducted him to the plantation stable, where 
he procured corn and fodder for his horse. While thus engaged 
their attention was attracted by a great commotion up at the "big 
house," where lights flashed, and officers could be heard giving 
commands. ''Dem's secesh," exclaimed the old darkey. "Dey'll 
be down heah in er giffy fer fodah, fer dey horses; you jes' clah 
out from heah mighty suden," said he, speaking to Old Alf, who 
also thought it was about time for him to go, and gathering up 
the corn and fodder he disappeared in the darkness, first exacting 
a promise from the old man to come to him when all was quiet, 
and bring him all the information he could gather respecting the 
numbers of the enemy, their intentions, and where they were 
going. 

Returning to his horse, Old Alf placed the corn and fodder 
before him, and then lay down to get a little rest, knowing that 
he must soon be moving. When the old darkey returned to his 
cabin, he was just in time to answer a call for all hands to turn 
out and bring feed for the rebel soldiers' horses. The old darkey 
made 'himself useful to the rebel soldiers, being on the alert all 
the time for such information as he might gather from their con- 
versation. 

He learned that the present force consisted of about 200 men 
of the Thirteenth Louisiana Cavalry, and from the house serv- 
ants he learned that the officers, who were 'being entertained by 
his master, had stated that they had received information that a 
force of Yankee cavalry had crossed the river from Skipwith's 
Landing for the purpose of making a raid in that section of the 
country, and that they, the rebels, were concentrating a force 
further up Bouef River, where they would meet the Yanks, cut 
off their line of retreat and capture them. 

When quiet reigned over the rebel camp, the soldiers sleep- 
ing in their blankets, the old darkey stole away and sought Old 
Alf, to whom he related all he had heard. The following morn- 
ing, long before the rebel soldiers were astir, Old Alf was in the 
saddle threading his way through the woods and by-ways. He 
had been instructed as to the general course the command would 
take, and that, in case he had anything of special importance to 
report, he was to intercept the command by the shortest route 
open to him. 



3i0 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

With the knowledge he now possessed respecting fhte inten- 
tions of the enemy, he realized the importance of making haste 
to rejoin the command and report the facts to Major Chapin. To 
intercept the command in time to give warning of the danger 
that menaced it, it was necessary to seek a short cut across the 
country. After skirting the plantation, he gained the road he 
traveled the day before, which he followed for a few miles, when 
he came to a road branching off from it, and in a more northerly 
direction, he followed it, but he had proceeded but a short dis- 
tance when he heard the tramp of horses' feet behind him ; turn- 
ing in his saddle, he saw that he was pursued by a party of rebel 
cavalry, and, putting spurs to horse, he clashed away, a shower 
of bullets greeting him, which fortunately went wide of the mark. 
With a yell, the rebels spurred their horses in pursuit, but they 
proved no match for Old Alf's thoroughbred, and soon gave up 
the chase. By hard riding, pursuing a zigzag course and follow- 
ing blind trails across country, he joined the command late that 
night and reported to Major Chapin. 

Tbe command was marching in a northerly direction, nearly 
parallel with Beouf River, but some distance east of it, the in- 
tervening country being swampy, while the enemy were march- 
ing in the same general direction, but on the opposite side of the 
river. After hearing Old Alf's report, Major Chapin was anxious 
to gain some information as to the means of crossing the river, 
and Old Alf was sent out the next morning to gain this informa- 
tion. He was instructed to scout along the east bank of the river, 
note the facilities for crossing, ferries, etc., if any, and gain such 
information as he could respecting the movements of the enemy. 

On leaving the command. Old Alf took a blind trail through 
the swamp, which brought him to the river. Following tbe river 
for some distance, he came to a ferry kept by an old colored man. 
This ferry was a very primitive affair, being simply a small flat- 
boat, which was propelled by means of a rope stretched from 
bank to bank. This ferry was for neighborhood use, and its 
carrying capacity two or three horses. By the payment of a lib- 
eral fee. Old Alf had himself and horse taken across the river, 
•stipulating that the boat remain there until he returned, promis- 
ing the old ferryman a good fee if he held the boat there in readi- 
ness for him; he wanted to provide for a hasty retreat in case 
he should be pursued. 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 311 

After leaving the ferry, Old Alf proceeded through the heavy- 
wooded bottom lands that extended some distance back from 
the river, and it was high noon when he 'emerged therefrom, and 
found himself in a cleared and settled section of country. ' 

Coining to the intersection of two roads, he was startled al- 
most out of his wits hy the command, "Hold up, old man," as a 
Confederate cavalryman, with gun leveled, rode into the road 
directly in front of him. This sudden and unexpected interrup- 
tion would have disconcerted a more experienced scout than Old 
Alf, but he was equal to the occasion, exclaiming, "Lawd bress 
me, massa, youens done skeered dis nigger out er year's grof. 
I done tol massa dat dem pesky Yankees gwine to capter dis chile, 
den he don' loss two niggers." "Whose nigger are you?" asked 
the rebel soldier. "Ize massa's boss man, I iz." "Where are you 
going?" "Don't I done tol youens iz arter dat wuffles nigger, 
Josephus, what don' run way, but dis er hoss don' play out." 
"Well," said the rebel soldier, "you will have to stay here till the 
Colonel comes up," and, bidding Old Alf follow him, he rode to 
the forks of the road, from which point they could see a long 
column of rebel cavalry approaching. Old Alf was startled at 
what he saw, but he gave no outward signs of it, but turning to 
the rebel soldier said, "Bress de Lawd, dem weans sojers," all 
the time, however, his brain was busy devising a plan by which 
he might extricate himself from his threatening position. 

His only chance seemed to be in immediate and desperate 
action. He had a revolver concealed on his person, but any at- 
tempt to fish it out from the depths of his baggy trousers, with 
the keen eye of the soldier upon him, would certainly be followed 
with fatal results. The only other weapon he carried was a stout 
stick he had cut along the road that morning. To attract the at- 
tention of the rebel soldier, Old Alf asked him if the man riding 
at the head of the column was the colonel, and as the soldier 
turned his gaze in that direction, Old Alf dealt him a blow on 
the head with his stick, knocking him senseless to the ground, 
then wheeling his horse, he dashed away with great speed. 

The advancing horsemen, witnessing the bold act, spurred 
their horses in pursuit. Bullets whistled dangerously close to 
Old Alf, but be heeded them not. Some of the pursuing party 
were mounted on thoroughbreds, and, outstripping their compan- 



312 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

ions, held their distance with Old Alf for some time, but one by- 
one they fell behind until but one remained, and he a dangerous 
competitor for the race. Though Old Alf urged his horse to his 
utmost speed, his pursuer slowly but surely gained on him, and 
it seemed plain that it was to be a test of speed and endurance 
between the two horses. Old Alf's horse was renowned for his 
speed and endurance, and, as far as known had never met defeat. 
Old Alf had trusted everything to the speed of his horse, his 
surprise, therefore, was great at finding himself distanced. 

In his younger days. Old Alf had ridden many races, his mas- 
ter having kept a stud of famous horses, which he took to New 
Orleans in the racing season, in the good old ante bellum days. 
Old Alf invariably accompanied his master on these annual visits 
to the Crescent City, and, being a good rider, he won considerable 
notoriety as a jockey. In this race, however, involving the great- 
est stake he had ever ridden for, he used all the arts of the expe- 
rienced jockey to distance his pursuer, who hung on his trail 
like an avenging nemesis. They literally flew over the ground, 
the long, even stride of the horses beating the ground in unison. 
Even at this critical juncture, Old Alf, true to his training and 
love of racing, deplored the loss of the race even more than the 
probability of being killed or captured. 

In the meantime, Old Alf released his revolver from its hiding 
place and held it in readiness for instant use. His pursuer had 
fired several ineffectual shots, but he resolved to hold his fire 
until the last hope of escape vanished, then to turn and face his 
adversary in deadly combat. Fortunately, however, for him the 
road led through a densely wooded region, with many abrupt 
turns in it, the curves being so frequent that it was only at inter- 
vals that pursuer and pursued came in view of each other. xAvail- 
ing himself of this circumstance, Old Alf reined his horse 
quickly to one side on rounding one of these curves and fired as 
his pursuer dashed into view. At the report of the pistol the 
horse shied, the man reeled in his saddle and fell to the ground, 
while the horse now freed from his rider, dashed on at increased 
speed, Old Alf following. 

On reaching the ferry, Old Alf captured the horse. The old 
ferryman was waiting for him, and getting the horses on the boat 
they pushed off and were soon landed on the other side of the 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 313 

river, where, after getting the horses on shore, Old Alf scuttled 
the boat and pushed it out into the stream to float away, this work 
being barely accomplished when several of the pursuing party 
reached the opposite bank, from which point they opened a lively 
fusillade, but the distance was too great for their shotguns to 
carry, and they did no damage. Thus frustrated, their impotent 
rage found vent in hurling all sorts of imprecations on the man 
who had thus defied and escaped them. The old ferryman, being 
badly frightened, Old Alf bade him mount the captured horse, 
and together they rode away. 

Old Alf rejoined the command late that night and reported 
to Major Ohapin. The night attack and the bloody scenes that 
followed are narrated in another chapter. 



OLD ALF RUNS AMUCK. 

Indulges in Fire Water. — Shoots One of the Men. — Flees, and is 
Captured by the Enemy. 

In September, 1864, the regiment being stationed at Vicks- 
burg, Alajor Cook, with about 300 men of the regiment, and one 
piece of light artillery, was sent into the Deer Creek country to 
break up the camps of Colonels Montgomery and Bradford, com- 
manding the rebel cavalry in that section. 

Marching from Vicksburg to Haynes' Bluff, Major Cook 
crossed the Yazoo River, a steamboat sent up from Vicksburg, 
ferrying the command across. Marching inland about ten miles, 
the command camped for the night. 

Old Alf, being familiar with* the country, he was detailed as 
guide. That the thought of returning to the scenes of his former 
life as a free man, and in the uniform of a Union soldier, filled 
him with a sense of pride and satisfaction, may, in a measure, be 
condoned, but it is to be deplored that his vanity got the best of 
his judgment so far that he overstepped the bounds of military 
discipline, in that he involved himself in a difficulty while in camp 
that night, the result of an over-indulgence in "fire water," which 
culminated in a reckless use of fire-arms and the shooting of one 
of the soldiers. Old Alf, being a creature of impulse, regretted 
the rash act as soon as done, and, fearing the consequences, his 



314 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

next step was- as ill-advised as the first, and with the smoking' 
revolver still* in his hand he bounded away with the speed of a 
deer, disappearing in the thick woods before he could be 
restrained. Running and walking by turn, he kept up his flight 
the greater part of the night, and in his haste to get as far from 
the command as possible before daylight, he took no note of his 
course, and was only brought to his 1 senses by the sharp command, 
"Halt," as a score of rebel soldiers, with guns leveled, surrounded 
him. Old All had blindly run into a rebel picket post. 

This was a decidedly precarious predicament for a "nigger 
soldier," and his career came well nigh being cut short right there. 
But it was not to be. The mysterious hand of fate, interposing, 
snatched him from what seemed certain death. Old Alf's time 
had not come, his career was not finished. He seemed to be one 
upon whom the seal of destiny was set, one who had a mission 
to fulfill, one over whom the hand of providence extended in 
watchful care. 

While preparations for his execution were being made, it be- 
ing proposed to hang him then and there. Old Alf stood mute, 
exhibiting the stoicism of his race, the Indian. The scene Avas a 
counterpart of wild savagery, the smouldering camp fires casting" 
a lurid light among the shadows of the trees, presenting a grew- 
some sight. In the midst of this scene a thought, coining like an 
inspiration, struck Old Alf. With him to think was to act, and 
he stopped not to consider the points of honor involved ; his eth- 
ics were, the end justifies the means, so without any qualms of 
conscience he exclaimed in well assimilated surprise, addressing 
his captors : "Bress de Lawd, ize don' got hack wif my sure miff 
friends. I thought fus dat youens wus some uv dem pesky 
Yankees what I done run all nite ter get way frum." Thus gain- 
ing the attention of the rebel soldiers, Old Alf went on to relate 
how he had made his escape from the nigger regiment, stating 
that he had shot and killed one of the guards in making his es- 
cape, that he had been pressed into the Yankee army, and that 
he had improved the first opportunity to make his escape from 
them. The rebel soldiers were so favorably impressed with this 
story that they at once pronounced Old Alf a good nigger, and 
sent him to the camp of Colonel Montgomery, that that officer 
might gain some information from him respecting the movements 
and designs of the Yankee cavalry that now menaced him. 



Third U, S. Colored Cavalry. 3J5 

On being- taken before Colonel Montgomery, Old Alf 'enter- 
tained that officer with a graphic account of his escape from the 
Yankees, concluding by saying: "I tells you, massa cun'l, dem 
niggers arn't gwine ter fit, dey jus' gwine ter skimdaddle at de 
fus fire, so dey iz." He also made an earnest plea to be taken 
into the Colonel's service as his servant, giving himself a high 
recommendation as a cook, etc., and the Colonel, of course, know- 
ing all about the nigger character, gave him a job to attend to his 
horses. 

At the first glimmer of light in the eastern horizon, heralding 
the approach of a new day, Colonel Montgomery had his com- 
mand in readiness to march, declaring that he would wipe the 
d nigger regiment out of existence that day. 

Old Alf was sorely troubled at the turn things were taking; 
he did not relish the thought of being mixed up in a fight against 
his own comrades, and, after seeing the superior force of the 
enemy, he feared the result. But he was greatly relieved when 
the Colonel ordered him to remain in camp and take care of his 
tent and extra horse. The horse was a fine thoroughbred on 
which the Colonel doted. As the rebel command, four hundred 
strong, marched away in the mists of early morning, Old Alf 
was sad and thoughtful, bitterly repenting his folly. For a time 
he busied himself in putting the Colonel's tent in order, through 
no sense of duty, 'but because he was restless and could not re- 
tain himself. Then he went out and made a pretext of grooming 
the Colonel's horse. Quiet reigned in the rebel camp, none re- 
mained but the sick and convalescent, and they were not yet astir. 
An idea came to Old Alf, the very condition of things seemed to 
suggest it. He returned to the tent and examined its contents, 
finding a pair of heavy revolvers, which he secreted on his per- 
son, then securing a saddle and bridle, he returned and put them 
on the horse, all the time looking around him and thinking. No 
one was moving in the camp. He would make a dash for free- 
dom. Quietly leading the horse to the outskirts of the camp, he 
mounted and rode away, going in an opposite direction from that 
taken by the rebel command. He. knew every foot of the ground 
he had to pass over, and calculated that by hard riding he could 
head off the rebel command and apprise Major Cook of their ap- 
proach, though he would have to make a wide detour. 



810 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

Old Alf was a good horseman, and he knew that it would not 
do to wind bis horse at the start, so he rode along for a few miles 
at a moderate pace, then he tested the speed of the thoroughbred, 
and as he covered the ground with long, even strides with little 
exertion, he felt confident of reaching the goal in time to save his 
friends. 

The sun was climbing high in the eastern horizon, in fact, was 
nearing the meridian, when he drew near to the point where he 
would intersect the road on which the rebels were approaching. 
Here he reconnoitered carefully, and convincing himself that they 
had not passed that way, he rode on at increased speed, with dif- 
ficulty repressing the wild whoop of triumph that rose to his lips, 
but he found relief for his pent-up feelings in urging his horse 
forward at a mad pace, sparing him not. What was one horse, 
yea, a hundred horses, if he reached the goal in time? So on 
he flew, hatless and splashed with mud. 

On the morning following Old Alf's ignominious flight from 
the regiment, Major Cook resumed his march at daylight, send- 
ing Lieutenant Geary in advance with twenty picked men, mount- 
ed on fleet horses, with orders to run down and capture all mount- 
ed men found in his front. This action was taken to prevent in- 
formation of his approach reaching the enemy, it being Ma j or 
Cook's intention to make a rapid march and surprise the enemy 
in his camp. 

Lieutenant Geary and his men were moving quietly along 
through a thickly weeded region, when, as they were about ot 
emerge into a small clearing affording a view of the road for 
some distance, a horseman was seen approaching at headlong 
speed. Lieutenant Geary quickly placed his men under cover of 
the woods, in a position to intercept him, and as he dashed in 
among the trees, Old Alf found himself surrounded, a score of 
carbines leveled at him. In his bespattered and disheveled plight 
he had not been recognized. Lieutenant Geary, on learning the 
cause of Old Alf's sudden appearance, sent him under guard to 
Major Cook. Profiting by the information gained from Old Alf, 
Major Cook made such disposition of his force as to best meet 
the attack of the enemy, placing them in the woods near the edge 
of the opening, with his right thrown forward so as to deliver 
a cross fire. Lieutenant Gearv was ordered to advance with his 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 317 

men and meet the enemy, make a slight resistance, and fall back, 
Leading the enemy into the clearing, which 'being accomplished, 
the enemy received a terrible shock as they charged across the 
open field. But rallying, they pressed forward until the little 
field piece added her voice to the argument, when seeing that the 
tide of battle was turning against them, and being unable to re- 
form their broken ranks in face of the withering fire rained upon 
them, they fell back into the woods on the other side of the clear- 
ing, where they re-formed and made a stand, but the little field- 
piece shelled them out of this position, and they again retreated, 
when a running fight was kept up until Rolling Fork was reached, 
where they attempted to destroy the bridge after crossing it, but 
desisted when the field-piece again opened fire. The damage to 
the bridge was soon repaired, and the pursuit continued for sev- 
eral miles. The rebel camp was captured and destroyed. 

The magnificent bravery of the Confederate officers in this 
engagement was conspicuous, showing that they belonged to the 
chivalry of the South. Inspired by their hatred of black troops, 
they fought with a daring and dogged determination that for a 
time seemed irresistible. But against the superior discipline of 
the black troopers, whose officers held them under ready control, 
the enemy's assaults were unavailing. 

Old Alf acquitted himself so well in this engagement that he 
was let off with a reprimand, the man he shot being 'but slightly 
hurt. 



A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING. 

Old Alf, under cover of a dark night, disguised as a rebel soldier, 

goes through the enemy's camp, picking his way among 

the sleeping soldiers, and takes a message to 

the Union camp. 

In the fall of 1864, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry formed 
part of a force sent out to scout the country between Vicksburg 
and Yazoo City. It was well known that this section of the coun- 
try was swarming with rebel cavalry. The Union cavalry had 
frequently raided this region, always meeting with stubborn re- 
sistance, and sometimes with defeat. So when the destination of 



31S Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

this expedition became known to the officers and men, all real- 
ized that hard fighting was before them. The enemy, as fore- 
shadowed by previous events, was encountered near Yazoo City, 
and in the engagement that ensued, the Third U. S. Colored Cav- 
alry, being thrown forward, dismounted, to make a flank move- 
ment, was cut off from the main command, which was also de- 
feated and driven back. Thus cut off and surrounded by an over- 
whelming force of the enemy, the Third U. S. Colored Cavalry 
took shelter in a small earthwork situated in a commanding posi- 
tion, where they maintained the position for twenty-four hours, 
repulsing several desperate charges. 

The situation was desperate in the extreme. Never was a 
garrison in a more forlorn strait. The enemy, in overpowering 
numbers and confident of victory, refused to treat on terms usu- 
ally accorded to a defeated foe. They regarded colored troops, 
however, as outside the pale of civilized warfare, and, filled with 
such sentiments, they rushed upon the devoted garrison in a blind 
fury to kill and spare not. On the other hand, the black troop- 
ers, inspired by visions of Fort Pillow, responded with yells of 
defiance as they met the onslaught of the enemy, hurling them 
back. Again and again the enemy returned to the attack, only 
to suffer repulse from the well-directed volleys of the black troop- 
ers. Thus the unequal contest was kept up until the gathering 
gloom of night enveloped the scene in darkness, when the firing 
ceased, the besiegers and besieged lay down to rest, sleep and 
watch. 

The enemy learned, alas, too late that they had a foe before 
them worthy of their steel, that the scenes of Fort Pillow could 
not be re-enacted here. Heavy black clouds rolled athwart the 
sky, deepening the gloom that hung like a funeral pall over the 
scene. Not a star was visible. Not a sound broke the death-like 
stillness, where the wild storm of battle had raged so short a time 
before. Scattered over the ground between the contending forces 
lay the enemy's dead, whose distorted visages, as revealed by the 
occasional flashes of lightening, presented a ghastly sight. They 
were the bravest of their fellows, foremost in the charge — they 
fell in the thickest of the fight, just outside the breastworks. 
Within the little fort the dead were laid to one side and the 
wounded cared for. The officers held a consultation, discussing 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 319 

the chances of cutting their way out by making a bold dash, and 
the probability of relief reaching them during the night. They 
were running short of ammunition, and it was certain that the 
enemy would renew the attack at daylight; some effort, therefore, 
must be made to relieve the situation. It was, however, finally 
decided to make an effort to communicate with the balance of the 
force, whose whereabouts and condition was unknown, or with 
Vicksburg, though this plan involved great risks, and was at- 
tended with much uncertainty, as the messengers must make 
their way through the enemy's lines. When this plan was decided 
upon and made known, there was no lack of volunteers willing 
to make the hazardous attempt, but only three were accepted, Old 
Alf being one of them, the other two being men of known nerve 
and shrewdness. 

It was arranged that these men should leave the fort separate- 
ly and in different directions. It was hoped that one of these men 
at least would succeed in evading the rebel guards and reach the 
Union forces. These men were given to understand that if cap- 
tured it meant certain death to them, but they did not shrink from 
the task. As Old Alf was the only one of the trio who succeeded 
in the undertaking, the two other brave fellows being probably 
captured and killed, we will simply narrate Old Alf's experience. 

After leaving the fort, Old Alf groped his way among the 
rebel dead that strewed the ground where the enemy had so lately 
charged. Stripping the uniform from one of the dead bodies, Old 
Alf took off his own and donned that of the dead rebel, also tak- 
ing the gun and accountrements. Thus equipped Old Alf was 
transformed into a veritable Texas Ranger, his long hair and lank 
form making the likeness almost perfect. Creeping along stealth- 
ily, screening himself in the gullies and washouts, often lying flat 
on the ground and listening, hardly daring to breathe lest the 
slightest sound or movement should attract the attention of the 
rebel outpost. In this way he passed the first line of sentinels. 
The inner guard was not so watchful, and he entered the rebel 
camp without incident and moved silently along among the sleep- 
ing forms of th e rebel soldiers until he reached the rear of their 
camp, where their horses were picketed. Here he carefully re- 
connoitered for the most favorable point from which to get a 
horse. He secured a likely looking animal, bridled and saddled 



320 Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 

him, when he was confronted by one of the guards, who accosted 
him with the question, "What's up now?" Seeing that the guard 
htad mistaken him for one of their own men, Old Alf answered the 
man by cursing the luck that seemed to single him out to make 
a long night's ride, and, mounting, rode away. Making a wide 
circuit around the rebel camp, Old Alf avoided the rebel pickets 
and reached the Yicksburg road in safety, where he learned the 
whereabouts of the Union cavalry, and was soon in their camp, 
giving an account of the besieged position of the Third U. S. 
Colored Cavalry. 

On the first indications of day on the following morning, the 
boom of cannon on an adjacent hill and the yell of Union cavalry 
brought cheer and relief to the Third U. S. The seige was raised 
— the garrison relieved. 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

UTTLE BOB, THE WAIF. 

As we gathered around headquarter's mess table one day in 
the summer of 1864, all noticed that we had a new waiter, who, 
with white apron and sleeves, was dextrously serving the table. 
He was a bright mulatto boy about 14 years old. Inquiry de- 
veloped the fact that he had been reared on the shores of Mary- 
land, almost in the shadow of the National Capitol, that he had 
been a servant to an officer of the Twelfth New York Cavalry, 
and had accompanied that regiment from Washington to New 
Orleans, coming around by steamer, thence up the Mississippi 
River to Vicksburg. At the last named place he became sepa- 
rated from that regiment, and found himself adrift on the billowy 
waves of war's tempestuous sea, from which he was rescued by 
Old Alf. 

The boy gave his name as Robert Butler, but he answered to 
the shorter appellation of "Bob." In fact, very few if any of the 
officers and men in the regiment knew that we possessed any other 
name, and should we introduce him here as Robert Butler, the 
survivors of the old regiment would fail to recognize in him 
"Little Bob" of the Third U. S. 

Little Bob was very patriotic, as well as a zealous advocate 
of the regiment, claiming for it par excellence in everything per- 



Third U. S. Colored Cavalry. 321 

taining to the profession of arms. He was remarkably bright and 
intelligent for one of his race, civil and respectful to every one 
he came in contact with, and he soon found favor with both of- 
ficers and men, and was regarded as the special portege of the 
regiment. Old Alf, though, assumed the guardianship of Little 
Bob, putting him through a course of discipline which, in more 
senses than one, left lasting impressions. When rebuked for his 
severity, Old Alf would say, "Ize gwine ter edicate that nigger 
ter be 'spectible. Dese little niggers got ter be licked 'bout so 
ofen er dey get witness and no 'count." 

In Aunt Margaret, however, Little Bob found a kind friend, 
in fact, a second mother. Old Alf assumed the functions of 
caterer and general manager of headquarter's mess, and Aunt 
Margaret, being a trained cook, he prided himself on the com- 
pleteness of the establishment, and nothing pleased him more 
than to havie some invited guests, officers of other regiments, to 
dinner, on which occasions he would say to Aunt Margaret, 
"We'll show dem dat our w'Mte folks is gentlemens if dey do 
blong to er nigger regiment." 

Under Old Alf's tutelage, Little Bob became proficient as a 
table waiter, performing the duties with the dexterity of a hotel 
expert. Little Bob followed the fortunes of the regiment, sharing 
in its triumphs and defeats until the close of the war, or until the 
regiment was mustered out, when, with Old Alf and Aunt Mar- 
garet, he went to live on a plantation with Colonel Osband, in 
Mississippi, where, before the crop was gathered, General Osband 
died of a malignant fever. These faithful servants remained 
true to the last, ministering to the General in his last illness, and 
were grief-stricken at the loss of their kind friend and benefactor. 

After General Osband's death, they went to live with Major 
Main, who was then operating a large cotton plantation in Arkan- 
sas. Subsequently, Major Main established himself in business 
in Little Rock, that State, Little Bob accompanying Mm. In Lit- 
tle Rock, Bob procured a position in a hotel, and later secured a 
position in the Pullman Car Company, where he procured good 
wages, and, being saving, he invested his money in a home of 
his own, married and settled down, becoming a worthy citizen 
of that city, where he is universally respected both by the white 
and colored people. Little Bob felt as proud of his first tax re- 
ceipt as the average man would of a block of government bonds. 



